We catch up with 26-year-old Blessing Okagbare, a world class sprinter, long jumper and Africa’s fastest woman. The Nigerian athlete’s best time is 10.79 seconds for 100m.
Sadly, women experience a lot of insecurities, which hinder them from pursuing their dreams. How did you overcome your insecurities?
Growing up, I was very skinny and someone told me that I could never do sports because I was too soft and fragile. I didn’t let it get to me. I pushed through and became a jumper. After that, I set a new goal to be a runner. It may seem hard, but keep your mind set on your goals and don’t ever give up on yourself.
What does your training routine involve?
My day starts at 6 a.m. every day at the gym before I go for a run. The power of my runs comes from doing weight training and the speed comes from track running.
What are your favourite training shoes?
Nike Zoom Air Pegasus; I’m a power runner, so those shoes give me a nice balance between weight and stability.
What is your go-to music?
I love gospel and inspirational songs.
You train alongside many of the world’s top runners. How do you deal?
Training with competitors does not get to me. I have an intense inward focus, which helps me block out the competition. During the race, I don’t even notice if my training partner is in the race, but I don’t underestimate anyone. As long as you are on the starting line, you are a competitor.
Do you have a pre-race ritual and what is it?
I usually snack on a few almonds after my warm up and listen to a song that inspires me; something about victory and success.
