A total of 22 Nigerian student-athletes will compete in the 2025 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon, representing 15 institutions. Key performers include sprinters like Kayinsola Ajayi and Tima Godbless, jumpers such as Charles Godfred and Prestina Ochonogor, and throwers like Vincent Ugwoke. These athletes aim to capture national titles and gain global attention from June 11 to 14.
Nigeria is once again making its mark in the world of collegiate athletics, as 22 student-athletes have qualified for the finals of the 2025 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships. This impressive group represents 15 different schools and will gather at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, from June 11 to 14, all eager to snatch national titles and gain international visibility.
Starting with Auburn University, Kayinsola Ajayi has been turning heads in both the 100m and 4x100m relay events. He recorded a smashing 9.95 seconds in his 100m heat, showcasing his explosive starts. Ajayi is no stranger to success, having previously claimed a silver medal at the African Championships and helped secure the NCAA 4x100m title this season.
Also from Auburn, Israel Okon remains consistent as a national champion in the 100m, showcasing a season-best of 10.13 seconds. With an All-African Games gold medal already to his name, this will be Okon’s debut at the NCAA finals, raising expectations. Further contributing to Auburn’s relay success, Opeyemi Oke played a vital role in the women’s 4x400m, finishing with a strong 3:28.06 and reinforcing her reputation as a reliable quarter-miler.
At the University of Alabama, Samuel Ogazi has emerged as a spectacular talent, clocking 44.43 seconds in the 400m, positioning him as a top contender for the NCAA title. His efficiency as the anchor leg in Alabama’s 4x400m team, finishing in 3:02.78, adds to his significance in the team’s medal quest. Meanwhile, Precious Nzeakor, the reigning Nigerian 200m champion, made her mark in the women’s division by advancing with a sleek 23.03 seconds.
Over at Ohio State University, Edidiong Udo made impressive strides, recording 45.27 seconds in the 400m and helping Ohio State’s relay team clock in at 3:03.42. He stands out as part of Nigeria’s promising quarter-mile future. At Baylor University, Ezekiel Nathaniel dominated the 400m hurdles with a fluid run of 49.03 seconds, while also anchoring Baylor’s 4x400m relay to a solid 3:05.33.
The University of Minnesota’s Charles Godfred soared in the long jump with a season-best of 8.10 meters, showing why he’s among the nation’s top athletes. Over at the University of South Florida, Vincent Ugwoke qualified in the discus throw, launching a 59.89-meter throw—elevating him to elite status in the event.
Continuing with Penn State University, James Onwuka was a reliable force in the 4x400m relay for the team, helping to secure a total time of 3:03.56. His ability to maintain pace and technique, especially under pressure, has been pivotal for the Nittany Lions. At Cal State Fullerton, John Clifford contributed a sharp 39.26 seconds in the 4x100m relay, showcasing his adept transition skills.
The talent continues with Louisiana State University (LSU), where Tima Godbless set notable times in both the 100m (11.11 seconds) and 200m (22.68 seconds), solidifying her position among the season’s fastest sprinters. Ella Onojuvwevwo also made her mark with a strong 50.99 seconds in the 400m, contributing to LSU’s relay’s competitive performance.
From Southeastern Louisiana University, Favour Onyah clocked in at 51.94 seconds, earning her spot as a formidable competitor in the women’s 400m. At the University of Central Florida (UCF), Adaobi Tabugbo’s fast 12.95 seconds in the 100m hurdles and her help on the relay showcased her versatility and efficiency.
Tarleton State University’s Prestina Ochonogor leapt a distance of 6.66 meters in long jump, confirming her status as a contender, while Texas Tech University’s Temitope Adeshina confidently cleared 1.84 meters in high jump, showcasing why she’s a medal favorite.
Not to overlook Mercy Umoibang, her smooth running helped Texas Tech in the 4x400m relay, finishing at 3:32.66. Iowa’s Chioma Nwachukwu powered her relay team to a remarkable time of 3:26.90, while Tennessee’s Esther Joseph excelled in the anchor leg of their relay, securing a speedy 3:27.76.
Lastly, the duo of Faith Okwose and Elo Okpah shone in Tennessee’s 4x100m, helping achieve a qualifying time of 43.70 seconds, proving their prowess in baton exchanges and overall speed. Their collective efforts depict the bright future of Nigerian talent in NCAA track and field.
In conclusion, the upcoming NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships promise an exciting showcase of talent from Nigeria, with 22 athletes competing across a wide range of events. From sprinters to jumpers and throwers, these student-athletes have proven their skills and determination, aiming for national titles and perhaps even global recognition. It’s a testament to Nigeria’s robust pipeline of athletic talent flourishing on international stages.
Original Source: punchng.com
