The MTN CHAMPS Benin Athletics Classics commenced with over 2,000 athletes competing, showcasing impressive performances. Benjamin Magaji excelled in the men’s 400m, while Miracle Sonny led in the junior women’s division. Notably, Adaeze Ezeh won the long jump, and the competition is set to continue until March 15th, featuring finals and heats across multiple age categories.
The MTN CHAMPS Benin Athletics Classics commenced impressively on Thursday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and UNIBEN Sports Complex, featuring significant performances from athletes such as Benjamin Magaji, Miracle Sonny, and Adaeze Ezeh. Over 2,000 participants represented their schools, teams, and states, with many achieving personal bests as they prepare for the 2025 athletics season.
Benjamin Magaji showcased exceptional talent, recording the fastest time in the senior men’s 400m heats with a new personal best of 48.23 seconds. He maintained his lead throughout the race, finishing first in his heat. Emmanuel Baraburu and Emmanuel Salubi followed with times of 48.27s and 48.53s, respectively, rounding out the top three fastest times.
In the junior (U20) women’s 400m, Miracle Sonny excelled with her personal best of 54.92s, earning her victory in Heat 3. Victoria Olaniyi and Success Okoro posted times of 55.62s and 55.92s, solidifying their places as the second and third fastest competitors overall.
The junior men’s 400m featured Gafar Badmus, who achieved a season-best time of 47.94s, leading Heat 6. David Akhalu and Eniola Shiro completed the top three with times of 48.22s and 48.30s. In the youth (U17) categories, Elizabeth Olumide and her peers led the girls’ 400m, while Emmanuel Chukwueweniwe was among the fastest in the boys’ division.
Mmesoma Ezeobi claimed the fastest time in the junior women’s 100m semi-finals with 11.88s, closely followed by Miracle Ezechukwu. The junior men’s 100m semis were dominated by Caleb John, who posted a seasonal best of 10.59s. Notable competitors set to join the finals include Gift Bright and David Osuya.
MTN CHAMPS Season 1 & 2 MVP Adaeze Ezeh won the junior women’s long jump with a leap of 6.05m, ensuring an exciting start to the competition. The upcoming Day 2 events, which extend until March 15th, will highlight the 100m and 400m finals across various age categories as well as the 4x100m heats, promising to deliver thrilling athletic performances.
The MTN CHAMPS Benin Athletics Classics have kicked off with remarkable performances from standout athletes, marking a strong start to preparations for the 2025 season. Key highlights include personal bests and fast times recorded in various events. As the competition progresses into Day 2, excitement builds around the upcoming finals and heats that will showcase the talent and dedication of the participants.
Original Source: punchng.com
