For the first time in African athletics history, the newly introduced Olympics-approved mixed relay format was showcased during Day 3 of the MTN Champs Season 3 Continental Relays at the Yabatech Sports Complex in Lagos.
The groundbreaking event was celebrated by the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, who emphasised its significance.
“We are all in the midst of history. It will be written in books that the very first mixed 100m relay was held in Nigeria—right here at the MTN Champs competition,” Olopade said.
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Breaking barriers with mixed relay format
The innovative relay structure involves baton exchanges across both genders, beginning with a female athlete, followed by another female, then passed to a male, and concluded by a second male. The MTN Champs featured both 4x100m and 4x400m mixed relays.
Team Continental takes the win
Seven teams competed in the 4x100m mixed relay: Team Continental, Team Benin, OAU Spartans (Obafemi Awolowo University), Zabranto Athletics, D’Victors A, and D’Victors B.
Team Continental claimed victory with a time of 42.91 seconds, followed by Zabranto Athletics at 44.69 seconds and D’Victors A at 44.88 seconds.
Ashe looks ahead to the world stage
Among the standout performers was Olympic sprinter Favour Ashe, who anchored the final leg, extending a commanding 30-meter lead to secure the win. He was supported by Iyanuoluwa Bada (first leg), Janet Adesiyan (second leg), and Chidera Ezeakor (third leg).
“I’m excited that this was the first time doing this in Nigeria,” Ashe said. “With what I saw today, and with our best guys out there, I think we can expect Team Nigeria to bring home a medal at the World Relays next month.”
Government support and new relay project unveiled
Hon. Olopade spoke about the broader vision for Nigerian sports development.
“The president has directed us to create a sports ecosystem that is economy-based, capable of creating wealth for athletes. That’s why we introduced the athlete grant,” he said, encouraging athletes to apply for support.
He also announced The Relay Project, a four-year initiative spearheaded by Bambo Akani, CEO of Making of Champions (MoC), the technical partner for MTN Champs. The project is designed to position Nigeria for podium finishes at the Commonwealth Games, All-Africa Games, and the 2028 Olympics.
The Lagos Continental Relays conclude on April 12 at the Yabatech Sports Complex. MTN Champs Season 3 will resume in Uyo from April 30 to May 3, with the grand finale set to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
