Akpomudje Promises Biggest-Ever GCU Relays as New Timing Equipment Arrives
Oru Leonard
Preparations for the eighth edition of the Government College Ughelli (GCU) Relays have received a major boost with the arrival of modern technical equipment ahead of the competition scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026.
President General Worldwide of the GCU Old Boys Association (GCUOBA), HRM Albert Akpomudje (SAN), has promised a memorable edition of the secondary school athletics competition, with plans to increase participation, revive the traditional bonfire and restore the prestige associated with its early editions.
The 2026 competition 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, said the electronic starting gun would improve the accuracy and efficiency of timekeeping during the competition.
According to him, the equipment offers significant advantages over conventional starting guns that use pellets, particularly in synchronising the start of races with the electronic timing system.
“Besides saving on pellets, the Electronic Starting Gun has a higher accuracy rate in synchronising with the Timetronics, thus ensuring the most efficient returns on timing at the finish line,” Nesiama said.
Akpomudje said the association was determined to make the forthcoming competition one of the most memorable in its history, particularly as it would be the final edition to be organised by his current executive team before the expiration of its second tenure 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,” he disclosed.
He explained that the association intended to give the 2026 edition a grand send-off by attracting more schools and athletes while restoring the atmosphere and reputation that characterised 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,” Akpomudje said.
The arrival of former Olympian Ruks Bazunu, the ambassador of the competition, has also added momentum to preparations.
Bazunu has consistently supported the GCU Relays with his time and resources, travelling between Nigeria and the United States to contribute to the success of the annual event.
Organised by GCUOBA Worldwide, the GCU Relays was established to promote athletics among secondary school students, with particular emphasis on sprint events in which Nigeria has traditionally demonstrated considerable strength.
The competition has continued to provide a platform for discovering and nurturing young athletic talents while encouraging schools to invest in grassroots sports development.
With the introduction of improved timing technology, plans to revive the traditional bonfire and a renewed drive to increase participation, organisers are optimistic that the eighth edition will celebrate GCU’s rich sporting heritage while inspiring a new generation of athletes.
The 2026 edition is expected to combine improved technical standards with the traditional excitement and camaraderie that have distinguished the GCU Relays over the years.
Credit: Media Team, 2026 GCU Relays
October 21, 2026
