African Senior Athletics Championships bronze medallist Samuel Ogazi is set to continue his remarkable performance at the Paris Olympic Games, having reached the men’s 400m final scheduled for Wednesday. Ogazi’s achievement marks the first time a Nigerian has reached this stage in 36 years, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Competing in the last semi-final at Stade de France on Tuesday, Ogazi delivered an impressive performance with a personal best of 44.41 seconds. This remarkable feat secured his place in the final as one of the fastest non-automatic qualifiers.
The last Nigerian to compete in the men’s 400m final was Innocent Egbunike at the 1988 Games in Seoul. Ogazi’s achievement resonates with Egbunike’s legacy as he finished behind Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith, who clocked 44.07 seconds, and USA’s Michael Norman, who finished in 44.26 seconds.
At just 19 years old, USA’s Christopher Bailey (44.31 personal best) and Ogazi claimed the two fastest non-automatic qualifying spots, surpassing Botswana’s Busang Kebinatshipi.
On Sunday, Ogazi became the first Nigerian male quarter-miler to reach the semi-finals of the event at the Olympics in 24 years. His performance sets the stage for a challenging final, featuring strong competitors like Kirani James from Grenada, Quincy Hall of the USA, and others.
Ogazi’s journey to the Olympics has been nothing short of remarkable. As an undergraduate at the University of Alabama, he became the second-fastest Nigerian over the distance in 37 years. He also shattered the school record with a time of 44.17 seconds in the men’s 400m at the SEC Outdoor Championships in May.
The final race promises to be a thrilling contest as Ogazi aims to make history for Nigeria by securing a medal. His performance thus far has not only inspired his nation but also positioned him as a formidable contender on the international stage.
Credit: punchng.com
