Nigerian sprint star Kanyinsola Ajayi delivered a composed performance to secure qualification for the next round of the men’s 60 metres at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships.
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Ajayi clocked 6.51 seconds to finish second in his heat, comfortably booking his place in the next stage of the competition. The race was won by American sprinter Jelani Watkins, who crossed the line first in 6.46 seconds.
The Nigerian athlete appeared to run within himself, conserving energy as he progressed safely through the round.
Ajayi has already proven his credentials this season after producing an outstanding 6.45 seconds, an NCAA-leading time that earned him victory at the SEC Indoor Championships earlier in the campaign.
With the competition heating up, Ajayi will be expected to shift into top gear as he targets a podium finish in the final.
He will be joined in the final by fellow Nigerian sprinter Israel Okon, who earlier impressed by running a new personal best of 6.48 seconds to win his own heat.
The presence of both Ajayi and Okon in the final highlights Nigeria’s growing strength in the short sprint events on the international collegiate stage.
All eyes will now be on the championship final, where the duo will aim to challenge for top honours against some of the fastest athletes in the NCAA circuit.
