Nigeria’s best male sprinters are in Port Harcourt about now, ready to test their might in the Athletics Federation of Nigeria Golden League.

The first leg of the six leg series began yesterday at the University of Port Harcourt sports complex and top on the bill are Obinna Metu fresh from a training stint with Jamaican great, Usain Bolt, Ogho-Oghene Egworo, Benjamin Adukwu and Ovie Patrick Agbaje.

Flying start... Obinna Metu ready to roll.

Athletics enthusiasts are eager to find out what Metu and Egworo are up to this season. They represent the country’s best hopes of winning the male sprint medals at the All Africa Games. Metu and Egworo failed to shine at the African Championships last year in Nairobi, Kenya and the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India.

The two athletes have gone head to head in two editions of the Mobil Championships with Obinna snatching the title with the slightest of margins.

Metu said that he was happy to be in Port Harcourt to open his outdoor season. He downplayed  the hint of rivalry with of his colleagues.

“I’m going to Port Harcourt to run. I don’t have anyone in mind. I’m just looking to offload what we have been doing in training, “ said Obinna.

Egwero was more optimistic of improving on his race this season.

“I’m in good shape more than last year and by God’s grace, I would maintain the momentum. This is my first race outdoors this season and for sure it will be a good test of our intention for the season,” said the Delta-born athlete.