Godfred must equal Yusuf Ali’s Nigeria long jump record to realise Paris Olympic dream

Reigning African U20 long jump champion, Charles Edward Godfred needs to equal Yusuf Ali’s Nigeria long jump record of 8.27m if he is desirous of becoming the first Nigerian to compete in the event at the Olympics since Stanley Gbagbeke last did in London in 2012.

Godfred has been flying in the American collegiate circuit this season, becoming the first Nigerian man in almost three years to hit the 8m mark.

The 20 year has soared to a lifetime best of 8.14m and will feel confident he can produce that huge jump that will not only land him in Paris at the Olympics but also make history as a joint Nigeria record holder.

Godfred will attempt to perform the miracle on Saturday at the Bernie Moore Track Stadium in Baton Rouge, Florida where the LSU Alumni Gold meeting will hold.

The University of Minesota freshman won’t be the only Nigerian in action in an event hosted by Ella Onojuvwewo, Tima Godbless and Godson Oghenebrume’s school.

Onojuvwevo will be running in the 200m event and her focus will be to set a new lifetime best in the event like she did last week in the 400m where she stormed to a 51.32 finish.

Oghenebrume will be competing in the 100m event and will be aiming to run a new personal season’s best after scorching to a 10.16 best last week.