AthIetics pundits describe the feat as classic and beyond expectations, as Athletes drawn from Nigerian Army University, Biu won three gold medals and one silver to qualify to represent Nigeria at the World University Games in China.
Blessing Ehi Ikpa, an undergraduate female Athlete started the gold rush when she placed first in the 100 meters final, returning 11.36secs an achievement many tagged monumental for her.
This was followed by John Benjamin who raced to first position in the men’s 1500 meters in 4:02:25.secs.for another gold medal
Benjamin, again came off the blocks in the 800m event to win the second gold medal returning 15:04:12secs, as Asemota Marvelous summed up the victory dance when She secured a silver medal in the 100m hurdle in 15:26 secs.
According to the technical Adviser of the team, Prince Ayuba said five Athletes participated in the athletics event and four were so far successful.
He described the Athlete’s performance beyond imagination, following the short period available for Preparations and particularly, excelling in events not too popular in the Northern part of Nigeria.
Ayuba also expressed gratitude to the Chairman Gombe State AthIetics Association, Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe for being the power behind the successful outing of the team.
He said more work is still to be done ahead, as the Athletes now have to brace up for more training to represent Nigeria well in China.
“We have just scaled through the first hurdle, next is the battle in China at the World University Games proper. Nigeria has to motivate these Athletes having come this far”
The NUGA World University Games Trials started on Monday as 315 athletes from 41 universities compete for a spot to represent Nigeria at the 31st Universiade in Chengdu, China, scheduled for July 28–August 8, 2023.
The trials featured seven sports, including athletics, badminton, judo, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, and tennis, and were held at the University of Benin and Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.
This event was an exciting showcase of Nigeria’s top university-level talents, as athletes competed for a chance to represent Nigeria at the prestigious international event.
The trials are also an opportunity for athletes to demonstrate their skills and ability to compete at the highest level, inspiring others to take up sports and pursue their athletic dreams.
The NUGA World University Games Trials are an important milestone in the Nigerian sports calendar, that requires everyone’s support.
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