Swimming sensation, Deborah Okpochini on Monday said it was her turn to rule the swimming calendar as a gold medalist after she emerged winner of 1,500m in freestyle in Asaba.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Okpochini a rave of the moment swimmer alongside her sister, Anita dominated the medals table at the 2022 National University Games (NUGA) where they both shared 7 gold medals.
Okpochini, who lost to her close challenger, Ifiezibe Gagbe from Bayelsa to win the 1,500m freestyle at the last NSF in Edo however, bounced back to win the gold medal at the 2022 NSF.
Okpochini told NAN that she had to put in lots of efforts to emerge as the gold medalist at the ongoing NSF where she got the crowd behind her as the host.
“I gave glory to God for giving me the strength to be able to train, pass through the trials and eventually winning gold at this competition.
“I have to pick it up from where I left it at the last NSF where I won silver after I was defeated by my compatriot from Bayelsa.
“I am actually waiting because I know it is my turn to win the gold medal, moreso, now that my state Delta is hosting the tournament, so I am more determined.
“I have promised to fight, even if I will have to get to the hospital to win this gold medal, now, all glory be to God that I eventually won,” she said.
NAN reports that Okpochini won the 1,500m freestyle with the time of 22:41:41 to defeat her closest rival Ijeoma Timothy with 23:34:00; while Oti Immaculate from Lagos won bronze with 25:41:73.
Defending champions, Gagbe was unable to finish her lap due to fatigue. (NAN)
