Ogazi and Onojuvwevwo win 400-meter titles at the Ed Murphey Classic

By: David Akande

Samuel Ogazi enjoyed a winning start to his professional career after winning the men’s 400-meter title at the Ed Murphey Classic in Memphis, Tennessee.

The Nigerian clocked 44.57 seconds to finish ahead of Jamaican Antonio Watson, who ran 44.70 seconds, while Granada’s Kirani James was third with 45.04 seconds. Facing two of the event’s biggest names, Ogazi maintained his composure throughout before pulling away to secure victory in his professional debut.

It was another encouraging performance from the 20-year-old, who continues to build on his rapid rise after a standout university career in the United States.

In the women’s 400 metres, Ella Onojuvwevwo achieved the Nigerian double with a timely victory in 50.38 seconds.

Onojuvwevwo made his strongest run in the closing stages to overtake the group and cross the line first. The American couple Sanaria Butler and Alexis Holmes followed with 50.69 and 50.94 respectively.

The wins capped an impressive performance for Nigeria at the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting, which saw both athletes put in composed performances against quality international fields as they continue preparations for the remainder of the season.