Team Bayelsa put on an impressive display on Day 1 of Athletics at the ongoing Niger Delta Sports Festival, competing in nine events at the renowned Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, popularly known as the Nest of Champions.
The day’s events kicked off with the 4x400m mixed relay, where the Bayelsa quartet of Rebecca, Faith, Bright, and Chucks secured a spot in the finals after a strong second-place finish in the semifinals.
In the men’s 100m, Ezuruike Augustine dominated his heat, clocking a personal best of 10.48s, while Daje Lucky finished second in his heat. Both sprinters advanced to the finals, ensuring Bayelsa’s strong presence in the title race.
Bayelsa’s dominance in sprint events continued in the women’s 100m, where Sophia Efetobore won her heat, followed closely by Perezide Sigah, who secured second place. Their performances earned Bayelsa two spots in the finals.
The 100m finals, held in a tense and electrifying atmosphere, saw stellar performances from Bayelsa athletes. Daje Lucky clinched the silver medal, finishing just behind Ashe Favour of Delta State, a seasoned athlete with two Olympic appearances. Ezuruike Augustine secured third place, earning Bayelsa a podium finish in the men’s race.
In the women’s 100m final, Sophia Efetobore captured silver, adding another medal to Bayelsa’s tally.
Young talent Samson Teibowei, competing in the U-15 800m, thrilled spectators as he led the race from lane 8 until the final stretch, where he finished third to qualify for the finals.
Bayelsa also secured a place in the 400m hurdles final, with their athlete finishing third in the heats.
The finals for the 400m hurdles and 800m men’s event are set to take place on April 4, 2025, alongside other athletics competitions
