Finally, the yearly Government College Ughelli (GCU) Relays is upon us. And for these emerging athletes, who will be flying the flags of their respective schools, it’s time to push for the limits, while elevating their performances.

And to serve as motivational push towards aiming for higher heights and greater glory will be the pre-event session to be conducted by GCU Relays Ambassador, Olympian, Ruks Bazunu.

Further to the quest for technical perfection at the inter-collegiate meet is the timely input from Ireland-based and erstwhile GCU Relays Ambassador, Orode Oyiki.

He commended those involved in the success of the GCU Relays, saying, “I wouldn’t know if we have secured the starting gun and starting blocks. These are connected to the electronic timing device including the photo finish camera.”

Oyiki admonished the organisers on the need to capture certain basic aspects of modern day athletics meets, listing the pre-event clinic as a precursor.
“Years back I observed that most athletes had no proper spike shoes for the tartan tracks and many could not use any blocks. It shows that the basic/rudiments of athletics are unknown to many athletes at this level. It will be nice to do a clinic to introduce the athletes to the basics,” the former national 110m hurdles champion advised.

In this year’s GCU Relays, holders, Federal Government College, Warri, will lead over 30 schools and 500 athletes to the mega event, holding today. It will be streamed live, courtesy of the offshore support provided by UK-based Ancient Mariner, Mr. Lee Foss.

Electronic timing devices have been provided by Delta State Sports Commission’s Director General, Festus Ohwojero, who promptly approved the release of the Timetronics for the event. Key to the GCU Relays is the revival of healthy athletics rivalry among secondary schools for national unity.