Athletics pundits described the feat as classic that goes beyond expectations as athletes drawn from Nigerian Army University, Bui won three gold medals and one silver to qualify to represent Nigeria at the World University Games in China.
Blessing Ehi Ikpa, an undergruate 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 15.4.12secs. Asemota Mervelous summed up the victory dance when She secured a silver medal in 100m hurdle in 15:26 secs.
According to the Technical Adviser of the team, Prince Ayuba, five athletes participated in the AthIetics event and four were successful.
He described the athletes performance as beyond imagination following short period available for preparation 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 in Benin.
He said more work is still ahead as Athletes 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 have 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 their 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 will be held at
the University of Benin and Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.
This event was exciting showcase of Nigeria’s top university-level talent, as athletes competed for the 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, and We encourage everyone to come out and support our talented athletes
