Athletic Heat Names 100m Showdown After Ajayi Kayinsola

Nigeria’s national 100m record holder, Ajayi Kayinsola, has been honoured by Athletic Heat as the organisation unveiled plans to name the blue-riband men’s 100m event after the sprint star at its 10th Anniversary Meet.

The headline race will be staged as the Ajayi Kayinsola 100m Showdown when athletes converge on the Yabatech Sports Complex in Lagos on November 7, 2026.

The honour carries particular significance for Ajayi, with Yabatech playing an important role in his development as a sprinter. The venue was among the tracks where he took some of his early steps in athletics and recorded notable performances during his formative years.

Ajayi returned to the facility for the unveiling ahead of the anniversary meet, where he also announced a personal contribution towards the development of athletics by providing cash prizes for the top eight finishers in the men’s 100m.

The initiative is expected to add further excitement and incentive to one of the most anticipated events on the programme.

Athletic Heat CEO, Ese Oguma, described Ajayi as a natural choice for the honour, citing both his achievements and longstanding connection with the Yabatech track.

“I’m very happy to have Ajayi Kayinsola named after this event. I didn’t see anyone else who could fit this title, not just because he is the national record holder, but also because of his connection to this track,” Oguma said.

“Ajayi and I trained under Coach David Sule/Arena Academy on this track, and I’m glad to see how far he has grown.

“I would also like to say a big thank you for his donation, as there hasn’t been any competition in Nigeria in recent years where the Top 8 are awarded. So it’s a great development and a boost for the athletes.”

The recognition comes at a significant point in Ajayi’s career, with his performances in 2026 further strengthening his standing among Nigeria’s leading sprinters and adding fresh attention to the country’s sprint programme.

His journey from developing his talent on the Yabatech track to establishing himself as Nigeria’s national 100m record holder provides a fitting link between the athlete and Athletic Heat’s decade-long celebration.

The Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet is expected to feature leading Nigerian athletes as the organisation marks a decade of contribution to the development and promotion of athletics.

Further event names and athlete tributes are expected to be announced as preparations gather momentum for the anniversary celebration.

The Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet is scheduled for November 7, 2026, at the Yabatech Sports Complex, Lagos.