Okpochini Wins 1,500m Gold Amidst Doubts

Magdalene Ukuedojor
May, Mon, 2025

Sports

Okpochini wins 1,500m gold amidst doubts

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By Olanrewaju Akojede

Multiple gold medallist at the National Sports Festival (NSF), Deborah Okpochini, has admitted to feeling nervous and doubtful before winning gold in the 1,500m swimming event.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Okpochini, who set a 100m freestyle record of 1:03.05 at the 2018 NSF, added another gold to her haul.

She broke a 27-year-old record previously held by Ikaghoemi Joshua during that 2018 outing in Asaba.

In spite of the recent gold medal, Okpochini confessed to NAN that she doubted her ability before the race began.

“I never believed I could win the 1,500m swimming event. I was jittery, having placed third in my first two races.

“To the glory of God, I won. I was overwhelmed and asked myself, ‘Have you really won the gold medal?’

“I give all glory to God. I was nervous knowing swimmers from Ogun and Edo States came with foreign athletes, but it didn’t affect me eventually.

“Overall, it wasn’t a bad performance. I retained my top position in the 1,500m, which I’ve consistently won,” Okpochini added.

The national record holder admitted she was not fully prepared for the festival but had done some training.

“My preparation wasn’t enough, though I did train. Still, I’ve now been invited to the 10km Open Water Tournament.

“It’s a big challenge. The Technical Director has asked me to prepare my mind ahead of the event in Kenya later this year.

“I’ll return to training with greater intensity. I’m determined to make Nigeria proud,” she stated.

NAN reports that Okpochini also won silver in the 4×100 mixed freestyle relay, alongside Forcados Jonah, Clinton Opute, and Akiayefa Timipame-Ere. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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