Estaport athletics sensation, Tobena, eyes Olympics medals

Competing against some of the best in the junior boys category, Tobena inspired Green House to win the competition by outclassing Blue House’s Tade Adeola with 4.10 metres in the long jump before emerging first on the chess board during pre-competition events.

Not done yet, the junior class three student, who hopes to be an Economics graduate, proved that his exploits in long jump and chess were no fluke when he outshone Ogbolu Odinma and Ogbazi Paul in the 100 and 200 metres events.

The Eastern Nigeria-born athlete, who said he started sports while still in primary school at Morola International School, also dazzled in the 400 metres, discuss, short put, sack race and the 4×100 metres relay. The prolific athlete told The Guardian: “My dream has always been to be one of the best in the world like Hussein Bolt, and I believe I will make Nigeria proud one day at the Olympics.

“I don’t want to think that I am the best so far but I hope to work harder and wish that more skillful athletes will take part next year to see if I am actually good.”

On his plan for next year’s event, he said: “I am not really good at the turning. It slows me down a little bit and so, I will be practicing to increase my speed when doing the turning with the help of my coach.”

Tobena celebrated his 14th birthday recently. He disclosed that his dad has been his major inspiration in sports. He hopes for a better opportunity to showcase his talent.