17-year-old Edo Cyclist Osaretin Godwin has dethroned Nigeria’s first Cycling Olympian Ese Ukpeseraye in the women’s 200m sprint final at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
Godwin delivered one of the festival’s most dramatic upsets by defeating the defending champion and Nigeria’s first Olympic cyclist 2-0 in a head-to-head sprint showdown held near Kobape along the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway.
Reacting after the win, an emotional Osaretin said it is a dream come true for him.
“I am very happy that I have finally achieved my dream of winning a gold medal at the National Sports Festival, which is meant for elite athletes. I give all glory to God,” he said.
Meanwhile, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has heaped praise on teenage cycling sensation, Osaretin Godwin.
In a statement released through his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described Osaretin’s achievement as “a remarkable demonstration of determination and a reflection of the strategic investment in grassroots sports development by Edo State.”
“We all know Ukpeseraye has been prolific over the years, winning this title at two consecutive National Sports Festivals held in 2020 and 2022. However, in a twist of events, our very own Osaretin emerged from nowhere to defeat the reigning champion twice, denying her the chance to defend her 200m gold medal,” Enabulele said.
He credited the victory to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s sports agenda, emphasizing that such success stories validate Edo’s focus on youth development.
“This well-deserved victory by Osaretin Godwin is a testament to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to grassroots sports development. We must reach into our communities, harness raw talent, and train them to compete nationally and internationally,” he added.
Enabulele further noted the win, saying it would inspire other young athletes.
“Although Team Edo has been winning gold medals since the commencement of the festival, this particular one is significant because the gold medalist is a teenager. Her victory will serve as motivation for other athletes as the competition enters Day 5.”
The race itself was filled with drama as Ukpeseraye, believing she had won, raised her hands in celebration. However, a video photo-finish revealed that Osaretin’s front wheel crossed the finish line ahead, handing her a historic win. Ukpeseraye settled for silver, while Delta’s Mary Samuel took the bronze. Pulse Sports