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Following Tokyo 2021 disappointment, Chidi Okezie is ready to make his comeback memorable at Paris 2024 Olympics, detailing his journey in an emotional statement release.
African Games champion Chidi Okezie is reveling in his dream of finally making his Olympic debut with Paris 2024 in sight, following the disappointment of Tokyo 2021.
The veteran 400m runner has been one of Nigeria's most patriotic servants in track and field since making his debut in 2015 and has since won several continental medals while inspiring the present generation of quarter milers.
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This season has been an exponential rise for the American-born athlete, first winning the African Games title in Ghana - Nigeria's first for the first time in 37 years, which he blazed to a then Personal Best (PB) of 45.06s to emulate the legendary Innocent Egbunike, who won the title in 1987.
Not resting on his oars, Okezie played vital roles in the mixed 4x400m and men's 4x400m relay teams winning gold and silver medals at the games. In addition at the World Relays, the ever-driven quarter-miler ensured the same relay teams punched their Olympic tickets.
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05:32 - 05.05.2024
World Relays: Unbelievable Chidi Okezie inspires 4x400m squad to Paris Olympic qualification for the first time in 20 years
Team Nigeria's men's 4x400m squad punched their ticket to the Olympic Games for the first time in 20 years.
Finally putting the icing on the cake, he sealed it with an individual qualification after lowering his PB to a new time of 44.97s to win the Edmonton Invitational in Canada
Okezie's qualification was a reward for his consistency through the years, having never qualified for the individual event for a major international championship since making his debut for Nigeria.
This rollercoaster journey was hampered by the disappointment of being among the 10 athletes who were disqualified from competing at Tokyo Olympics due to no fault of theirs, which led him to contemplate quitting the sport.
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He has now detailed his emotional comeback on his X page, stating he's ready to give his best in Paris.
"Four years ago, my world shattered. I faced the crushing blow of disqualification due to no fault of my own. My dream of competing in the Olympics was ripped from my hands, but not my heart.
"These past four years have been a journey of resilience, growth, and unwavering determination. I've pushed my body to its limits, honed my skills, and fortified my mind. Every setback became fuel, every doubt a challenge to overcome.
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"Now, I stand at the threshold of a new chapter. I'm back, and I'm not the same athlete I was four years ago. I'm stronger, faster, and more focused. The dream that was once torn away has been rebuilt, tempered by adversity, and polished by perseverance.
"In 3 days, the 2024 Summer Olympics begins and I'll be there. To those who counted me out: watch me rise. To those who supported me through the darkness: thank you for believing. The comeback starts now.
"In 3 days, the 2024 Summer Olympics begins and I'll be there. To those who counted me out: watch me rise. To those who supported me through the darkness: thank you for believing. The comeback starts now," he wrote.
Okezie will aim to lower his PB with better performances in Paris and be the force needed for the relay teams to challenge for a medal
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