Echikunwoke’s going to Paris for the Olympics!

Former Nigeria hammer throw champion and reigning African record holder in the event, Annette Echikunwoke is on her way to her first Olympics. The Nigerian-American was denied the chance to make her debut at the Games wearing the green and white colours of Nigeria three years ago in Tokyo due to the ineptitude of athletics officials who messed up her out of competition doping test. Three years on, the 27 year old will finally make her debut at the Games when the Olympic train makes its XXXIII stop in Paris, France courtesy her victory Monday at the US Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. Her first round throw of 74.68m was enough to secure her victory in the event, an Olympic qualifying standard and a place in USA’s team to Paris. Echikunwoke changed allegiance to represent Nigeria and became eligible for that in January 2021 but had to switch back to the USA in June 2022 when her application was granted by World Athletics.