World Championships: Egwero, others ready to ‘squeeze water out of stone’

Nigerian athletes have been left on their own devices as preparations hots up for the World Championships happening August 10-18 in Moscow, Russia.

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN had planned a month-long camping for the team selected at the Cross River/All Nigeria Championships decided in June, but having failed to secure funds to make that happen, the athletes were left to train on their own.

“We are still waiting for the AFN to tell us the next line of action. It is regrettable that we are not having any special preparations for the World Championships, just like other major athletics countries.



“However, we will make do with the little we have. All the athletes are preparing on  their own. On my part, I am ready to go there and give it my best,” said sprinter Ogho-Oghene Egwero.

Egwero ran a personal best of 10.16secs at the CAA permit meet in Warri. He is looking to better his time with an appearance in the final of the 100m event at Moscow 2013. He made his first World Championships appearance in Berlin 2009.

AFN president Chief Solomon Ogba, who is desirous of ending Nigeria’s unfruitful medal chase at international events, expressed optimism that his charges will do well in Russia.

“It is a bit frustrating when you have a plan and the funds to implement it are not just there. We can  only  hope  that we  get  the  kind  support  other federations get from their respective countries. However, we are hoping to do well in Russia,” he  assured.