By Ben Efe
Princess Mabel Madojiemu has revealed her excitement at the achievements of youth athlete Prestina Ochonogor.
In three short years after making her athletics debut at the maiden Princess Mabel Madojiemu Schools Athletics Championships in Benin City, Ochonogor has catapulted herself into international reckoning.
Last weekend in Texas, USA she announced her arrival at the American Collegiate Games by setting three different records with her jump of 6.64m to set her school Tarleton State University Texas abuzz.
The soon to be 19 years Ochonogor achieved the feat of reaching the finals of the Olympics women’s long jump at the Paris 2024 Games finishing in the top 12 bracket. This was after picking a bronze at the African Games, she was making her debut in both events.
Reacting to the good news of her ascend to the top, Princess Madojiemu stated that going out of her way to sponsor the schools Championships has been justified.
“I ‘m thrilled to hear about Prestina Ochonogor’s outstanding achievements,” said the former quartermiler who represented Nigeria at the 2004 Olympics and 2006 Commonwealth Games.
“It’s incredible to see how far she’s come, setting new records and making such a significant impact in her NCAA debut for Tarleton State University.
“Her journey from being discovered at the Princess Mabel Madojiemu Schools Athletics Championships to competing at the Olympics is truly inspiring.”
Princess Madojiemu herself, who was discovered during the Yinka Folawiyo U-18 Championships back in the 1990s canvassed for more catch-them-young and grooming of athletes programmes.
“Prestina’s success is a testament to the importance of nurturing young talents and providing them with the opportunities to excel.
“I wholeheartedly urge the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, States Sports Commissions, and other stakeholders to support and encourage these promising athletes.
“With such dedication and talent, Prestina is sure to achieve even greater heights in the future. Let’s celebrate her accomplishments and look forward to more amazing performances!”
