Akpomudje Promises Biggest-Ever GCU Relays as Ultra Modern Timing Equipment Arrives

PRESS RELEASE

...Electronic starting gun ensures most efficient timing – Nesiama

Preparations for the eighth edition of the Government College Ughelli (GCU) Relays have gathered momentum with the arrival of ultra modern technical equipment.

Meanwhile the President General Worldwide of the GCU Old Boys Association (GCUOBA), HRM Albert Akpomudje, (SAN), has promised an unforgettable 2026 edition of the secondary schools athletics competition.

Scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, the meet will feature an upgraded technical setup, including an electronic starting gun and the Timetronics photo-finish system owned by the Delta State Sports Commission.

Retired Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, a World Athletics Technical Official who served at the Youth Olympic Games, explained that the electronic starting gun offers significant advantages over conventional guns that use pellets.

“Besides saving on pellets, the Electronic Starting Gun has a higher accuracy rate in synchronising with the Timetronics. Thus ensuring a most efficient returns on timing, at the finish line,” Nesiama said.

Beyond the technical improvements, Akpomudje has pledged to make this year's competition particularly memorable, with plans to revive the traditional bonfire and expand participation among schools and athletes.

The 2026 edition will also mark the final GCU Relays under the leadership of Akpomudje's current executive team, whose second tenure is scheduled to end in January 2027.

“As we (NEC) wind up our second tenure in January, 2027, this year's GCU Relays would be the last to be executed by our illustrious Team,” Akpomudje disclosed.

He added that the association intends to give the event a grand send-off by increasing participation and restoring the atmosphere and prestige associated with its earlier editions.

“Therefore, we intend to make a huge feast and a big deal out of it, not only by ensuring a greater number of participation, but by restoring the famous glory of the early editions as prosecuted by my predecessors Prof. Oritsegbemi Omatete and Arc. Chief Charles Majoroh,” he said.

Adding to the build-up is the arrival of the meet's ambassador, former Olympian Ruks Bazunu, who has consistently committed his time and resources to supporting the competition, travelling between Nigeria and the United States to contribute to its success.

Organised by GCUOBA Worldwide, the annual GCU Relays was established to strengthen secondary school athletics, with particular emphasis on sprint events, where Nigeria has traditionally enjoyed a competitive advantage.

With upgraded equipment, renewed emphasis on participation and the planned return of the bonfire, organisers are targeting an edition that celebrates the school's athletics heritage while creating fresh opportunities for young athletes to excel.

SIGNED

Media Team

2026 GCU Relays

21/10/202026