British-Nigerian teenager Divine Iheme is rewriting the record books and sparking comparisons to one of the greatest sprinters of all time, Noah Lyles.
At just 15 years old, Iheme shattered the 60m world record for his age group twice in a single event, clocking an impressive 6.71 and 6.72 seconds at the BFTTA Indoor Series in London.
These feats broke J-Mee Samuels’ 2003 record of 6.74 seconds, positioning Iheme as a global sprint prodigy.
The remarkable performance has thrust Iheme into the spotlight, but his story goes beyond breaking records. His times in the 60m now place him fourth on the UK U18 all-time rankings, just 0.02 seconds shy of Mark Lewis-Francis’ 1999 record.
According to Sky Sports, last year, Iheme stunned the athletics world with a blistering 10.3-second 100m, nearly a full second faster than Noah Lyles was at the same age.
His meteoric rise has left the athletics community buzzing about his potential to dominate the global stage.
“I was in utter shock when I saw the times. I couldn’t believe it! I felt so happy, and I couldn’t have done it without God,” Iheme shared exclusively with Sky Sports News, brimming with excitement.
“Noah Lyles has been a huge inspiration to me. Watching him gave me the confidence to pursue this career and run even faster.”
Iheme told Sky Sports he has already committed to representing Great Britain despite his parents both previously representing Nigeria at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.
His grandparents were runners and mother Nkiruka Anu and father Innocent Iheme were both successful athletes, in their own right – with his father competing in the 100m and the long jump, and his mother competing in the 100m and 200m as he does.
Iheme’s rise has been fueled by a relentless dedication to his craft, along with the guidance of his mother, Nkiruka Anu, who doubles as his coach.
“It’s a God-given talent,” Iheme humbly admits, reflecting on his success. “But my parents have been there every step of the way, pushing me to train harder and get faster.”
The teenager, known as “Lightning” for his speed, is already being touted as one of the sport’s future stars. His running style has been described as both natural and unique, influenced by his idols Usain Bolt and Allyson Felix.
“I’ve watched a lot of Usain Bolt’s races, especially his 200m world record, and that inspired me to pursue sprinting,” he explains. “I try to slingshot off the bend and maintain my lead until the finish line.”
With his eyes now set on a 100m world record at the National Championships, Divine Iheme’s future looks brighter than ever.
| Posted: at | |
gogoman
fineboy77
Jiiitk4
TRENDING GISTS 
Justin Welby Steps Down As Archbishop Of Canterbury, Marks Final Day With Symbolic Ceremony
Alleged Baby Mama of Cubana Chief Priest Thanks Burna Boy for Fulfilling Promise To Support Her
FA Cup Fourth Round Draw Revealed as Manchester United Triumphs Over Arsenal
Father, Monday Elela Confesses To Killing Son, Burying Him Over Alleged Criminal Behavior in Ondo State
Nigerian Man Disrupts Ex-Girlfriend's Wedding With Shocking Revelations Of Secret Life