At just 12 years old, Joel Oghele might have been the youngest athlete in the Boys’ 800m final at the MTN Champs Benin, but he proved that age is no barrier to determination and resilience.
Competing against older and more experienced runners, Oghele clocked a personal best of 2:48.43, finishing 11th overall in the Youth Boys’ 800m. However, it wasn’t just his time that caught attention—it was his composure at the finish line.
While his competitors collapsed onto the track from exhaustion, the JSS 2 student of The Lord’s Own International School, Benin, stood tall, calmly drinking water. His reaction underscored his strong mindset, instilled by his coach.
“Falling down on the track is for lazy athletes,” Oghele stated confidently after the race. He further explained that his coach had always emphasized, “Walk around instead of falling down,” after every race.
His words and attitude reflect the discipline and endurance required for success in athletics. As one of the youngest competitors in the championship, Oghele’s performance not only highlights his potential but also sets an example of grit and perseverance for young athletes across Nigeria.
With such a mentality at a young age, the future looks bright for Joel Oghele as he continues to develop in middle-distance running.
