A new star is rising in the world of athletics, and her name is Kelly Ufodiama. The 19-year-old Nigerian sprinter made headlines at the NCAA Championships in Oregon, clocking an impressive 22.61 seconds in the 200m with a tailwind of 0.7 m/s.
This standout performance has cemented her status as one of Nigeria’s most promising talents on the global stage.
Ufodiama, who recently switched her sporting allegiance from the United States to Nigeria last month, is already turning heads with her remarkable speed. A freshman at East Carolina University, she has quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with.
Her personal bests (PBs) of 11.15 seconds in the 100m and 22.54 seconds in the 200m, achieved at the NCAA East Prelims in Florida, rank her as the second-fastest U20 athlete in the world this year. Her 200m time also secured her qualification for the World Championships, a significant milestone for the young sprinter.
Born in the United States, Ufodiama’s decision to represent Nigeria reflects her deep connection to her heritage and her ambition to make an impact on the international stage. Her versatility as an athlete is equally noteworthy. During her high school years, she excelled as a dual-sport athlete, balancing basketball and track with remarkable success.
This multi-sport background has likely contributed to her explosive athleticism and competitive drive.
Track analysts and fans alike are buzzing with excitement about Ufodiama’s potential. Her performances signal a bright future for Nigerian athletics, and she is poised to become a key figure in the country’s sprinting legacy.
Great story.
Thanks for letting us know about her. Let us hope our naija govt will help her