Enekwechi supports emerging athletes with N950k prize fund

Nigeria’s leading shot put athlete, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, has committed ₦950,000 in prize money to the men’s shot put competition at the Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet, in a move aimed at supporting emerging athletes and promoting field events, BSN Sports.com.ng reports.

The anniversary meet is scheduled for November 7, 2026, at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex in Lagos, with the sponsorship guaranteeing cash rewards for the competition’s top four finishers.

Under the prize structure, the winner will receive ₦400,000, while the runner-up will earn ₦300,000. The third-place finisher will take home ₦150,000, with the fourth-placed athlete receiving ₦100,000.

Enekwechi, a two-time Olympian, African champion and African record holder, said the initiative reflects his desire to give back to the sport and create opportunities for younger athletes seeking to establish themselves in athletics.

“I love my people, I love my sport, and I love my country. I just feel that, given my position, it’s a great opportunity to give back to young people, and hopefully, it inspires young talent that hasn’t had a chance. If I can help and called to the sport, then I’m glad to do so,” he said.

The sponsorship is expected to provide additional motivation for competitors while highlighting the importance of supporting field events, which often receive less attention than track disciplines.

Athletic Heat chief executive officer Ese Oguma welcomed Enekwechi’s contribution, describing the prize fund as a significant boost for the competition and its participants.

Oguma said he was pleasantly surprised by the scale of the sponsorship, particularly the ₦400,000 first-place prize.

“I was elated when Chukwuebuka said he will support with almost a million naira in cash prize, with first prize going home with 400k naira. This has never happened in the history of Nigerian athletes and I’m happy this meet is able to give field athletes that opportunity to smile to the bank,” he said.

He also commended Enekwechi for using his achievements and influence to support the development of upcoming athletes in the discipline.

“Chukwuebuka has been a face when it comes to the men’s throws and it’s amazing to see what he is doing to support the next generation,” Oguma added.

The initiative underscores the potential role of established athletes in strengthening grassroots competitions, providing financial incentives for emerging competitors and creating greater visibility for field events in Nigeria.

Enekwechi has encouraged interested athletes to register for the competition through A3Tickets and wished all participants success at the meet.