In a stunning upset at the ongoing 2024 Gateway Games (National Sports Festival) in Ogun State, 17-year-old Edo State cyclist, Osaretin Godwin, dethroned Nigeria’s first cycling Olympian, Ese Ukpeseraye, to claim gold in the women’s 200m sprint final.
Osaretin defeated Ukpeseraye in a thrilling final held near Kobape, along the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway.
Read Also: Ogun2025: Louis Osasuwen Grateful for First Festival Experience, Eyes Relay Medal
The dramatic conclusion saw Ukpeseraye initially celebrating what she believed was a win, only for the photo-finish review to confirm Osaretin had edged her at the line.
Ukpeseraye, who had previously clinched the 200m sprint titles at the 2020 and 2022 editions of the festival, settled for silver. Mary Samuel of Delta State took bronze.
Speaking after her victory, a jubilant Osaretin said, “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.”
Edo State Sports Commission Chairman, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, praised Osaretin’s performance, describing it as “a demonstration of determination and hard work.”
In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele emphasized the significance of the win:
“This well-deserved victory by Osaretin Godwin is a testament to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to grassroots sports development. We must continue to harness and train raw talent from our communities.”
He added that Osaretin’s win over an Olympian is a powerful motivation for other young athletes as the festival enters Day 5. “We are delighted that a junior athlete can now compete favourably with elite athletes of Olympian standard and defeat them. Indeed, this is the hallmark of true sports development.”
The victory marks a major milestone not only for Team Edo but also for the future of Nigerian cycling, highlighting the emergence of new talents on the national stage.
