AFN Trials: All I want is a Commonwealth Games gold medal,says Ogundiran
AFN Trials: All I want is a Commonwealth Games gold medal,says Ogundiran
The newly crowned Nigerian women’s 100m champion, Blessing Ogundiran, has said that her next target is to win a gold medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to be held in Glasgow.
The U.S.-based sprinter made the assertion in an interview on the sidelines of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN)-organised 2026 Commonwealth Games trials held at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Complex, Lagos.
Voice Media Trust (VMT NEWS) reports that Ogundiran sprinted to victory in the women’s 100m event to claim the national title in a thrilling contest at YABATECH.
Ogundiran powered through the finish line in an impressive 11.12 seconds (-0.5m/s) to emerge champion in the highly competitive race, which showcased the depth of female sprinting talent in the country.
Hot on her heels was home-based Miracle Ezechukwu, who delivered a career-best performance of 11.15 seconds to finish second.
Ezechukwu’s outstanding run not only earned her a podium finish but also saw her meet the benchmark required for the Ben Aghazu Excellence in Athletics Prize.
The Ben Aghazu Excellence in Athletics Prize is a special initiative designed to reward and encourage outstanding performances by home-based athletes.
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Olayinka Olajide, another U.S.-based sprint star, completed the top three, stopping the clock at 11.28 seconds after another strong display.
Following her impressive performance, an elated Ogundiran, in an interview after her victory, expressed her determination to win the 100m gold medal at the next Commonwealth Games.
“All I want is a Commonwealth Games gold medal because I am looking forward to the Games. It is all I want.
“I am not scared of any of the top athletes expected at the Games. The big names do not intimidate me. I will focus on my race, ensure I execute my plans properly and run another personal best.
“My secret is God. I have been praying for this day to come. I also have a very good coach who mentors me.
“For now, all my focus is on the Commonwealth Games. I have set my target, and there will not be any distractions for me,” she said.
VMT NEWS also reports that Olympian Chukwuebuka Enekwechi threw 21.46 metres to win the men’s shot put title for a record fifth time, while Oyesade Oyetayo won the hammer throw event with a mark of 65.07 metres.
