By Uzor Odigbo

Asaba 2018 poster athlete Blessing Okagbare has expressed optimum confidence in the ability of all athletes to achieve their dreams in sports and was thrilled winning gold medal for Nigeria on home soil.
The athlete who ran the second leg in the 4x100m relay gold victory also defended the criticisms that trailed the organization of Asaba 2018 championships.
‘We had the race under control and it was thrilled we delivered the gold medal. I didn’t run the flat, I made sure we restored our image in the 100m relay’
The Sapele born sprinter insisted that it took a lot of courage and determination to step out and run. ” I thank my relay mates who combined well to achieve victory.
I’ve to run the second leg because that’s only area I can achieve the best result, to anchor would have been difficult for me due to injuries., she said.
Okagbare also appealed for understanding in the way the organization of the championships went. She urged everyone to appreciate all efforts organisers put in place to achieve and deliver the championships.
‘So far, so good. Everywhere this kind of thing happen there’s bound to be some challenges which I think should be a leaning process and not criticism.’
Nigeria’s 4x100m relay men also won a silver medal after South Africa had picked the gold in a thrilling race that kept spectators standing. The bronze went to Cote d’ Ivorie relay team.
Meanwhile, Nigeria has so far won a.total of 5 gold, 4 silver and 7 bronze medals after Day 3 of competition. The gold medals came from the following events, shot put men, 100mh, discus women, long jump women and 4x100m women relay.