By Uzor Odigbo
Following superlative performance displayed by Nigeria AthIetes at the just concluded Africa Games Trials in Asaba, former sprinter Chinedu Odozor-Onikeku declares Nigeria athletes ready for the Games in Accra.
Onikeku reacted after athletes such as Israel Okon, Consider Ekamem and others returned good times in 100/200m also in 400m men and women at the Trials in Asaba.
She said, “Based on the results of races I have watched so far, I can tell Nigerians that these athletes are good to go. I am particularly impressed with our athletes performance which was totally unexpected owing to time of the Season which comes early to some athletes”
The former Long Jumper insisted that the Federation technical and competitors department should further harmonise effort to make these athletes champions through adequate preparation, competition and welfare packages
” Nigeria is at the moment, churning out new talents from the junior cader and this is good for Nigeria at home based level. I also observed that many of our junior athletes have traveled abroad in search of education, this is also good for the country.
On the trials extended to 5-days instead of the usual 3 days, the female Customs officer said the extension was good and should be sustained. ” It makes the competition exciting, thrilling not boring as many would think. It also allows for good spacing of events for athletes quick recovery.”
She however advise athletes to acquire good mental strength to avoid fear that often leads to disqualification during high tensity sprint events.
