Adegoke, Omokwe Sparkle on Opening Day of MTN CHAMPS Grand Final in Ibadan

The MTN CHAMPS Grand Final burst into life at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, with a thrilling showcase of speed, strength, and determination across the qualification rounds.

The spotlight fell on Nigeria’s relay aces, Enoch Adegoke and Maria Thompson Omokwe, who stamped their authority on the men’s and women’s 100m heats respectively, showing their readiness for next month’s World Relays in Botswana.

Adegoke, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic finalist and MTN CHAMPS Ibadan Ambassador, powered to the overall fastest time in the men’s 100m, clocking a season’s best of 10.30s.

He was closely chased by Tejiri Godwin and Chidera Ezeakor, both registering 10.32s in a fiercely competitive field.

In the women’s 100m, Omokwe surged to the front with a commanding 11.42s, ahead of reigning National Champion Chioma Nweke (11.70s) and Lydia Ajayi Bibilomo (11.81s).

The 400m races delivered equally gripping battles.

Sisan Efejuku led the men’s qualifiers with 47.70s, edging Ezekiel Asuquo (47.71s) and Sikiru Adeyemi (47.93s).

In the women’s division, Pemisire Adedoyin Adepoju stormed to a Personal Best of 54.28s, followed by Udo Udot (54.39s) and Comfort James, who also achieved a PB of 54.87s.

The junior categories saw Ghana’s Kazali Iddrisu top the boys’ 400m in 47.83s, while Treasure Okereke dominated the girls’ race with 53.15s. Youth standout Lasisi Afeez impressed with a lifetime best of 51.13s, and Chisom Ezeh controlled the girls’ event in 57.27s.

The cadet races were highlighted by Miracle Ebube Odi (1:00.64) and Sidiqut Taiwo Baruwa (1:01.39), who both finished well clear of their rivals.

Field events added further excitement, with Ruqqayah Kemi Mustapha winning the women’s Discus Throw at 45.34m, and Babatunde Smith soaring to a new Personal Best of 1.93m in the Youth boys’ High Jump.