Kayinsola Ajayi Equals Nigerian Record at Prefontaine Classic

Kayinsola Ajayi, a 21-year-old sprinter, achieved a remarkable victory at the Prefontaine Classic held in Eugene, Oregon, on Saturday, where he clocked a time of 9.84 seconds in the men's 100m race. This time equals the Nigerian record previously set by Olusoji Fasuba in May 2006.

Ajayi's performance edged out reigning world champion Sevil from Jamaica, who finished second with a time of 9.89 seconds, while American Olympian Christian Coleman placed third at 9.95 seconds, narrowly ahead of compatriot Kenneth Bednarek, who ran 9.96 seconds. Ajayi's win not only signifies his rapid ascent in the sprinting world but also follows his recent triumph in winning his first NCAA outdoor 100m title.

He expressed confidence in maintaining his momentum and emphasized the importance of consistency, health, and trust in his coach. Ajayi first rewrote the Nigerian record book in May when he ran 9.84 seconds at the NCAA East Region Championship, surpassing Fasuba's long-standing record.