Chukwuma storms to season-opening victory in Louisiana, outpaces Ofili and Leduc

Former Nigerian women’s 100m champion Rosemary Chukwuma made a strong statement at the start of her outdoor campaign, claiming victory at the Battle on the Bayou meet in Louisiana ahead of compatriot Favour Ofili and Canada’s Audrey Leduc, Sport360NG reports. 

Chukwuma powered to the finish in 10.81 seconds with a +3.1 m/s tailwind, while Ofili and Leduc shared second place after both clocking 10.93 seconds.

The 24-year-old produced a sharp start and controlled the race from the blocks, maintaining her advantage despite a late push from Ofili in the closing metres.

Although the performance stands as the fastest all-conditions time of her career, the wind assistance means it will not be recognised as an official personal best. Her legal best remains 10.88 seconds, recorded at the John McDonnell Field in Fayetteville in May 2024.

The victory continues Chukwuma’s recent dominance over Ofili, marking the second time this season she has finished ahead of her training partner. She had earlier opened her year in February with a win in the women’s 60m, posting 7.17 seconds to edge American sprinter Alia Armstrong (7.19s), with Ofili placing third in 7.23 seconds.

Chukwuma was Nigeria’s only entrant in the women’s 100m at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, where she exited in the heats after failing to secure a semi-final spot.

Nevertheless, she has remained a key figure in Nigeria’s sprinting setup in recent years. The former African U-20 champion reached the semi-finals at the Paris 2024 Olympics and has contributed to relay podium finishes, including gold at the African Games and bronze at the Commonwealth Games.

She first rose to international prominence in 2018, winning gold in the 100m at the Youth Olympic Games.