By Gbenga Jolaosho
Despites the country’s shoddy preparation, Mary Onyali-Omagbemi, has exuded confidence that the Nigerian athletes for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, will have blissful outing at the sports fiesta.
Onyali, who clinched bronze in 200m at the 1996 Olympic Games, said unlike the Olympics, Nigeria is a force to reckon with in Commonwealth Games and as such winning medals would not pose a lot of problems.
“We have always done well at the Commonwealth Games, and I believe this year’s will not be an exception.
“Although generally we have not given our athletes the type of preparation they deserved, but then we should not forget that each of them have not been relenting in their training.
“Of course, I have no doubt in mind that somebody like Blessing Okagbare will win individual medals, and with her support Nigeria is also sure of wining something in the relays.
“The lady is presently in top form and also holding the African records in 100 and 200 metres. So all we need is just to wish the athletes well,” said the 1994 Commonwealth Games 100m bronze winner.
Leading Nigeria’s representatives in the athletics events at the Glasgow Games which runs from July 23 to August 3 is Blessing Okagbare. And she will be competing in the women’s 100 metre, 200m and 4x100m events alongside Gloria Asumnu, Dominique Duncan, Justina Sule, Mariam Bassey and Christy Udo.
The likes of Folashade Abugan, Omolara Omotosho, Regina George, Patience Okon, Ada Benjamin and Funke Oladoye, will also be competing in the women’s 400metres and the 4x400m.
The men’s sprint team has new national 100m champion, Mark Jelks, Mozavous Edwards, Ogho-Oghene Egwero, Seye Ogunlewe, Obinna Metu and Peter Emelieze.
Other athletes include Tosin Oke for triple jump, while Samson Idiata and Sule Hammed are for long jump.
Nigeria finished ninth at the last Games in New Delhi, India in 2010 with 11 gold, eight silver and 14 bronze medals.
