Mary Princess Adediran has emerged as a gold medallist in the women’s long jump event at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, representing Lagos State. The determined athlete, who competed in her second appearance at the festival, shared her emotional journey and reflections after clinching the top prize.
Speaking to Sports247, Adediran described the moment as a bittersweet victory. “Apparently, the long jump event didn’t go exactly as I expected, but I return all glory to God,” she said. “I came here aiming to win gold and set a new personal best. While I didn’t hit a new PB, I’m grateful to have secured the gold medal.”
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The Lagos athlete revealed that she had trained intensely in preparation for the competition. “I’ve worked day and night, through rain and sunshine,” she said. “It’s been a tough road. My coach and I had a plan, and I tried to execute it to the best of my ability.”
Having competed in the last edition of the National Sports Festival held in Delta State, Adediran noted significant progress in her performance. “The last time I didn’t even make it to the finals. This time, not only did I reach the finals, but I came out with a gold medal. That’s a huge improvement for me.”
Now in her fourth year as a competitive athlete, Adediran says her focus remains on surpassing her current personal best of 6.14 meters. “I came here determined to go beyond my limits, and although I didn’t quite achieve that goal, I’m leaving here with renewed hope and determination,” she added.
Her gold medal win adds to Team Lagos’ growing medal tally at the festival and underscores the depth of talent present among Nigeria’s young athletes.
