Nigerian Athlete Chinecherem Nnamdi Wins Bronze In Javelin Event

Team Nigeria’s Chinecherem Nnamdi became the nation’s first medallist in the field event since 2002 as he cliched Bronze in the Men’s Javelin final at the ongoing World U20 Athletics Championships in Nairobi, Kenya.

Nnamdi, whose 78.02m throw qualified him as the top athlete with the best throw two days ago, put up a good series of throws as he laid down the gauntlet to his competitors with an opening-round throw of 70.57m. He went better in the second round as he launched his spear to a distance of 72.63m.

In the third round, he improved as he threw to a distance of 73.49m. At that point, Finland’s Janne Lasper surged to the lead with a throw of 76.46m. Nnamdi came up with a throw of 74.48m, a mark which will later saw him stay third for the remaining attempt.

“I feel a bit disappointed because I was really going for the GOLD here, but I will still take this medal and hope to build on the progress going forward,” Nnamdi said.

Lasper held on for the win, as Ukraine’s Arthur Felfner nicked Silver with a throw of 76.32m.

Nnamdi also became the first Nigerian athlete in 19 years to win a Field event medal at the Championships since Esther Aghatise (Long Jump) achieved the feat in 2002.

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Chidi Nwoke/Making of Champions.