THE factional President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria Shehu Gusau has promised sprinter Enoch Adegoke a sports utility vehicle if he wins a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics which start on 23 July.
During a send-off ceremony held by the Edo State Government for Adegoke on Monday, Gusau, whose faction does not have the backing of the sports ministry, said the gesture is his way of motivating the athlete to go for gold.
Adegoke will participate in the 100m men’s event, where he is ranked joint-20th among Tokyo 2020 competitors with his 10.00 seconds time.
Up against the likes of American trio Trayvon Bromell, Marvin Bracy and Ronnie Baker (who ran 10.77s, 10.86s and 10.86s respectively in the US trials in June) and his own compatriot Divine Oduduru among other top sprinters, Adegoke would need a near miracle to get into the 100m final, let alone win a medal.
Gusau, who was part of the virtual send-off ceremony via Zoom, said that if Adegoke wins any other medal apart from gold, he will still receive a surprise gift from him.
“Olympics is a big stage where every qualified athlete is motivated to go for gold and we need to motivate them more,” Gusau said, according to AFN media.
“I am talking about a tear rubber SUV, not a fairly-used vehicle. If he wins any other medal, the AFN will give him a gift.
“I promised Blessing Okagbare during the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and it was redeemed. This cannot be different.”
Gusau thanked the Edo State Government for their continued support towards Nigerian athletes and grassroots development.
The Edo State Government presented Adegoke with $10,000 for his upkeep during the Games.
