Consider Ekanem, the current world leader in the 100m and a favourite for the African Games AFN trials, failed to meet the expectations of athletics fans who gathered to watch him compete at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) African Games National Trials in Asaba, Delta State, South South Nigeria.
Ekanem was removed from the men’s 100m race due to a false start, leaving him crestfallen in front of the spectators that packed the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba to see Nigeria’s best on the track.
In his absence, 17-year-old speedster and newcomer Israel Okon Sunday won the race in 10.20 seconds, beating Fakorede Adekalu by 10.26 seconds and Enoch Adegoke by 10.30 seconds.
In the women’s race, Olayinka Olajide was simply too hot to handle, as the quick athlete running in lane three easily coasted home after breaking free from the pack. The 21-year-old finished in 11.19 seconds, a personal best, beating Bless Ogundiran in second place with 11.50 seconds and Favour Onyebuchi in third with 11.66 seconds.