Nigeria's former hurdler, Moses Oyiki, has advised former world record holder Tobiloba Amusan to consider reuniting with her former coach, Lacena Golding-Clarke. Oyiki believes this move could lead to improved results for Amusan at the 2027 World Athletics Championships in China and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Amusan had previously achieved success under Golding-Clarke, winning a World Championships gold and setting a world record in Oregon in 2022.
Amusan has since switched to a new coach, Glen Mills, a former sprinter and ex-coach of Jamaica's multiple Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt. However, Oyiki questions this decision, suggesting that Mills' background as a sprinter may not provide Amusan with the specialized knowledge she needs to excel in hurdles. Oyiki argues that Golding-Clarke, as an ex-hurdler, has a deeper understanding of the techniques required for the event.
Oyiki, now a lawyer based in the Republic of Ireland, expressed his concerns about Amusan's decision to switch coaches. He believes that Amusan made a wrong turn by leaving a coach who had proven to be effective in the past. Oyiki also notes that Mills may have divided attention, coaching sprinters from various countries, which could impact Amusan's performance.
Despite Amusan's current coach being experienced, Oyiki thinks she would have better performances under Golding-Clarke. He suggests that Amusan's issues with late take-off from the starters' blocks could be addressed with the help of her former coach. Oyiki is not dismissing Mills' abilities but believes Amusan would benefit from Golding-Clarke's expertise.
When asked if Amusan still has a chance to win a gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, Oyiki expressed optimism. As a hurdler, he notes that age is not a significant problem for Amusan at the moment. Oyiki believes Amusan still has what it takes to win an Olympic gold in 2028, provided she addresses her issues with late take-off from the blocks.
Oyiki's advice comes as Amusan looks to regain her form and reclaim her world record. The 2027 World Athletics Championships in China and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics are significant targets for Amusan, and her team will be looking to make the necessary adjustments to achieve success. Oyiki's comments add to the ongoing discussion about Amusan's coaching situation and her prospects for future competitions.
Amusan's performances have been closely followed by athletics fans, and her decision to switch coaches has been a subject of interest. With Oyiki's comments, the focus is now on whether Amusan will consider reuniting with Golding-Clarke and what impact this could have on her future results. The athletics community will be watching closely as Amusan prepares for the upcoming championships.
Key points
- Oyiki advises Amusan to reunite with former coach Lacena Golding-Clarke for better results.
- Amusan switched coaches from Lacena Golding-Clarke to Glen Mills, a former sprinter.
- Oyiki believes Amusan can still win an Olympic gold in 2028 if she addresses her issues with late take-off from the blocks.
