Over 500 youth athletes have registered to participate in the 3rd Princess Mabel Madojiemu Athletics Championships billed for April 25-26 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
The competition, which is open only to schools in Edo State had been a scouting ground for young athletes and this year the initiator of the program Princess Mabel Madojiemu says she is looking forward to seeing new faces.
“From our first two editions we got a number of athletes that emerged to represent Edo State at the National Youth Games and also recently the African Games,” the former 400m champion said.
“Of course our goal is to produce the new Mary Onyalis, Tobi Amusans, Falilat Ogunkoyas, Mabel Madojiemus, Ese Brumes and so many other greats.
“Nigeria has always been a power house in athletics; we need everyone involved to support grassroots development in their own little way. That’s the only way the country can achieve its huge potentials”
She added that all necessary arrangements have been made to achieve a successful outing.
“We are on course and hopefully looking forward to a happy ending.
“We made it clear to the participating schools that U15, should be U15, so that the purpose of why we are here is not defeated.”
Events to be contested include 100m, 200m, 400m, 4x100m,4x400m and long jump.
