Retired Commodore Omatseye Nesiama has hailed the introduction of modern timing equipment for the eighth Government College Ughelli (GCU) Relays, while the President General Worldwide of the GCU Old Boys Association (GCUOBA), HRM Albert Akpomudje (SAN), has pledged to attract record participation at the competition.
The competition, scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, will feature an electronic starting gun and the Timetronics photo-finish system belonging to the Delta State Sports Commission to improve timing accuracy and technical standards.
Nesiama, a World Athletics Technical Official who served at the Youth Olympic Games, explained that the electronic starting gun would offer significant advantages over conventional starting guns that use pellets.
“Besides saving on pellets, the Electronic Starting Gun has a higher accuracy rate in synchronising with the Timetronics, thus ensuring the most efficient returns on timing at the finish line,” he said.
Akpomudje said his executive team was determined to make the forthcoming edition memorable, as it would be the last GCU Relays organised by the current leadership before the expiration of its second tenure in January 2027.
“As we (NEC) wind up our second tenure in January 2027, this year’s GCU Relays would be the last to be executed by our illustrious team,” he said.
He added that the association planned to give the event a grand send-off by increasing participation and restoring the prestige associated with earlier editions organised by his predecessors, Prof. Oritsegbemi Omatete and Arc. Chief Charles Majoroh.
“Therefore, we intend to make a huge feast and a big deal out of it, not only by ensuring a greater number of participation, but by restoring the famous glory of the early editions as prosecuted by my predecessors Prof. Oritsegbemi Omatete and Arc. Chief Charles Majoroh,” Akpomudje said.
The 2026 edition is also expected to witness the return of the traditional bonfire associated with earlier competitions, adding to the atmosphere and camaraderie surrounding the event.
Preparations have received further momentum from the arrival of former Olympian Ruks Bazunu, ambassador of the competition, who has consistently supported the event with his time and resources, travelling between Nigeria and the United States to contribute to its success.
Organised by GCUOBA Worldwide, the GCU Relays was established to promote athletics among secondary school students, particularly in sprint events, while providing a platform for discovering and nurturing young talents.
Over the years, the competition has encouraged grassroots sports development and highlighted the potential of young Nigerian athletes.
With improved timing technology, plans to revive the traditional bonfire and a renewed commitment to expanding participation, organisers are optimistic that the eighth edition will celebrate GCU’s sporting heritage and inspire a new generation of athletes.
Credit: Media Team, 2026 GCU Relays