Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host the 3rd edition of the Confederation of Africa Athletics (CAA) U-18/U-20 Championships. The event, scheduled to take place from July 16th to 20th at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, promises to be an electrifying display of athletic prowess, featuring over 900 athletes from 43 African nations.
The championships are expected to be a platform for discovering new talents and showcasing the best of African athletics. Nigeria, as the host country, has fielded a strong contingent of 132 athletes, while other athletics powerhouses like South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt are also expected to make a strong impression. The competition will be fierce, with athletes vying for medals and recognition on the continental stage.
Some of the notable athletes expected to participate include World junior champion in the U20 men’s 100m, Bayanda Walaza, from South Africa, and Nigeria’s own women’s long jump finalist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Prestina Ochonogor. These athletes, along with others, are poised to make a bold statement and potentially set new records.
According to Yusuf Alli, Executive Director of the National Sports Commission’s Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, the championships are a valuable opportunity for talent scouting and grooming world-class athletes. Alli expressed his excitement about the event, stating that he will personally be in attendance to identify and pencil down athletes that can be groomed for future competitions.
The CAA U-18/U-20 Championships have contributed significantly to the growth and development of athletics in Africa, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and gain valuable experience. The event is expected to draw massive attention, with over 240 sports journalists registered to cover the championships.
As the countdown begins, athletes and officials are converging on Abeokuta, eager to make their mark in the championships. With its rich sporting history and state-of-the-art facilities, Abeokuta is set to provide an ideal setting for the young athletes to shine. The outcome of the championships is expected to have a significant impact on the future of African athletics, with many athletes set to qualify for higher-level competitions, including the forthcoming tournament in Nigeria and Egypt in September and November.
