Nigerian athlete Tobi Amusan had an impressive season in which she set a new 100m hurdles world record and a new Commonwealth Games record as she walked away with the gold medal in both Eugene and Birmingham. At the end of the season, she won her second diamond trophy.
The Nigerian clocked 12.12 sec for the world record in Eugene, Oregon in July, and a little later she also set a record at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham – 12.30 sec. For the new season, however, Tobi Amusan has even higher goals – he hopes to break the 100m hurdles record under 12 sec.
“I feel happy, I thank God for the opportunity to showcase my talent and put myself, my family, and Nigeria on the world map. Honestly, it’s the same thing all year round. I was disciplined, dedicated, and focused on my goals. But things fall into place like magic when God says it’s your time”, said Tobi Amusan. “The World Cup and Commonwealth Games took their toll on my body but it was great to turn up when I needed to. Breaking the world record revealed to me that there is so much to do in the steeplechase. I think running under 12 seconds is possible”, added she.
She added that her mental strength and positive mindset despite the challenges were the driving force behind her successful season.
“I come from a very spiritual family, even when things get tough we still say ‘thank you, Jesus’. Most times it may not be what we want to hear, but we still say ‘thank you, Jesus’. I’m used to saying what I want, even if it doesn’t seem like it at the moment. But I know it will”, said Tobi Amusan. “It was like a motivation that drove me in the sport. I wake up, set goals and work towards them, even when I don’t feel like it. Going into the championship, I just had to remind myself that I’m the best and I’m not going to let anything stand in my way to greatness”, added the Nigerian athlete.
