Ajayi Breaks into Bowerman Watch List After 6.45 Record Run
Auburn sprinter Kanyinsola Ajayi has stormed into the 2026 Bowerman Men’s Watch List for the first time in his career, following a record-breaking performance at the SEC Indoor Championships in College Station, Texas.
Ajayi clocked a blistering 6.45 seconds in the 60m, a time that places him alongside Christian Coleman, Terrence Jones, and Leonard Myles-Mills in the NCAA all-time record books.
His run not only stunned many observers but also confirmed his status as one of the most exciting talents in collegiate track and field.
Ajayi is no stranger to big performances. Last year, he ran a wind-legal 9.92 in the 100m at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Championships and went on to qualify for the final at the World Championships.
His inclusion on the Bowerman Watch List marks a significant milestone, as the award is the highest honor in NCAA track and field, recognizing the most outstanding male and female athletes each year.
For Nigeria, Ajayi’s breakthrough carries added significance. Only two Nigerian men, Divine Oduduru and Ezekiel Nathaniel, have previously reached the Bowerman final three, though neither won.
On the women’s side, Blessing Okagbare also made it to the final three but fell short of victory. Ajayi’s emergence now raises hopes that a Nigerian athlete could one day capture the prestigious award.
While Samuel Ogazi is out of the top 10 athletes on the Watch List, the 19 year old African 400m indoor record holder and Olympic finalist is among seven others receiving votes (recognized outside the top 10).
