By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
No fewer than 23 budding talents were discovered at the 2022 Kaduna State Talent Hunt Athletics Competition which was held on Friday June 10 at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium.
Member Kaduna Athletics Association and PRO Coaches in the state, Coach Felix Osiebe disclosed this when fielding questions from sports writers at the end of the colourful event.
According to him, the athletes that participated were from two zones in the state, with Kafanchan Zone absent.
“We had athletes from two zones, Kafanchan athletes didn’t come, we don’t know why, but athletes came from Zone 1 Zaria and Zone Two, Kaduna.
“We discovered close to 23 outstanding athletes. But we have some that distinguished themselves, like Joachim Joseph who is just 10 years old from Flying Horse Athletics Club Sabon Tasha, who won 100m and 200m sprint in the U-13 B Category male,” he said.
He assured that a tab would be kept on those discovered to groom them to become world beaters that would make the state and NIgeria proud.
In an interview with newsmen, Joachim Joseph said that his success came about because he trains everyday.
“I want to be an international athlete and win Olympic gold in the future. I want to thank my mum, dad and coaches for the support they have been giving me,” he added.
Also speaking, Jotham Elaigwu from Coach Felix Academics and Sports Foundation who is 13 years old and won 100m and 200m gold medals for U-13 A Category male, said he has been running and winning from primary school.
“Since when I was in primary school, I was always running and finishing first. I only finished fifth once when I ran with my seniors, I broke down in tears but coaches comforted me and said there would be another time and I took the opportunity as it came today.
“I want to appreciate my parents for encouraging me. My dad is a footballer, when I told him I wanted to start running, he encouraged,” he informed.
For 12 years old Blessing George, from Coach George Foundation Zaria, winning the 100m and 200m U-13 B Category female gold medals was as a result of her determination.
“I was determined to do it and I won. It’s my first time of winning and by God’s grace I will keep winning,” she declared.
