Golden League Lights Up Benin with Explosive Performances on Opening Day

BY VOKE BRUME

The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City was treated to a thrilling display of athletic prowess as the AFN Golden League Series kicked off with a bang. The first day of competition saw a flurry of personal bests and impressive performances across track and field events.

In the men’s senior Discus Throw, 19-year-old Nyherhovwo Benaiah Ofuoku stamped his authority on the circle with a commanding throw of 45.95m, a new personal best that underlined his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s brightest prospects. Chineme Akachiukwu Nweke and Emmanuel Shakamomodu Audu followed in second and third, respectively, with personal bests and season’s bests.

The men’s 100m saw Chidera Ezeakor power to victory in 10.32 seconds, with Tejiri Godwin and Gift Bright taking second and third, respectively, with personal bests. The women’s 100m final was won by Chinoso Courage Odika in 11.69s, ahead of Mariam Jegede and Ejiro Peter.

The men’s long jump final produced fireworks, with Romeo Bernard soaring to a wind-assisted 7.63m to clinch victory and register a new personal best. Hope Okoro and Nkemakolam Godswill finished second and third, respectively, separated only by countback.

In the women’s senior Javelin Throw, Victoria Effiom Kparika delivered the standout performance of the day, launching the spear to 47.89m, a personal best that left the rest of the field chasing shadows.

With multiple athletes hitting personal and season’s best marks on opening day, the Golden League Series has already set a high bar in Benin City. Fans can expect even faster times, longer leaps, and bigger throws as the competition gathers pace.