Nigerian sprinter Tobi Amusan has once again etched her name in the record books, setting a new African women’s 60-meter hurdles indoor record with an impressive time of 7.77 seconds. This extraordinary performance unfolded at the Astana Indoor Meet in Kazakhstan on Saturday.
Amusan’s feat not only secured her victory in the 60m hurdles final but also shattered the longstanding continental record held by compatriot Gloria Alozie since 1999. Alozie’s record of 7.82 seconds, which had stood for over two decades, yielded to Amusan’s swift and precise run, marking a new era in African women’s sprint hurdles.
The 26-year-old athlete crossed the finish line ahead of formidable competitors, American Nia Ali and Ireland’s Sarah Lavin, showcasing her prowess and determination on the international stage.
This record-breaking run is a significant milestone in Amusan’s career, following a tumultuous previous season. The Nigerian sprinter faced a provisional suspension before the World Championships due to missed drug tests but was subsequently cleared of any wrongdoing. Despite failing to defend her 100m hurdles world title, finishing sixth in Budapest, Amusan concluded the year on a high note by securing her third consecutive Diamond League trophy.
Amusan’s latest achievement not only solidifies her position as a leading figure in African female sprint hurdles but also adds to her impressive track record. In 2022, she made history by becoming the first Nigerian to claim a World Athletics Championship gold. Furthermore, she broke the women’s 100m hurdles world record on her way to this triumph.
