By Ifeanyi Uwagwu
Samuel Ogazi has made history by becoming the first Nigerian athlete in 36 years to qualify for the 400m final at the Olympic Games, following in the footsteps of the legendary Innocent Egbunike.
Ogazi’s remarkable performance in the semifinals of the Paris 2024 Olympics has secured his place among the elite athletes of the world in the final showdown.
In a highly competitive race, Ogazi ran a personal best of 44.41 seconds to finish third in heat 3 of the 400m semifinals. His outstanding effort not only earned him a spot in the final but also demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level.
Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith won the race with a time of 44.07 seconds, while Michael Norman of the United States took the second automatic qualifying spot with a time of 44.26 seconds. Despite facing tough competition, Ogazi proved his mettle by finishing just behind the leaders and securing his place in the final.
Ogazi’s performance has reignited hopes for a medal in the event.
