You know that feeling when you’d do anything to get out of doing chores? For one of Nigeria’s fastest 400m runners, that feeling sparked an unexpected journey that led her to become the fifth fastest Nigerian 400m runner in history! Ella just turned 20 years old, which makes this feat even more impressive.
In a candid conversation, we sat down with Ella, the LSU star and Nigerian sensation, to unpack her record-breaking season. This year, she consistently shattered her personal bests, dipping under 51 seconds and eventually clocking an incredible 50.3 at the NCAA semifinals.
But behind the dazzling times and national records, Ella shares the raw truth of her journey: the unexpected setbacks, the mental battles, and the crucial role of self-belief and a supportive team. She opens up about battling injuries and the disciplined recovery process that ultimately fuelled her comeback.
Ella also reveals the moment she truly fell in love with track and field, transitioning from a fun escape from housework to a dedicated career. She discusses the benefits of training with elite teammates at LSU, the technical adjustments she’s made to her race, and how she deals with “internet coaches” who think they know best.
This conversation is packed with insights for aspiring athletes and anyone looking to overcome challenges. Ella’s advice is simple yet profound: believe in yourself, trust the process, and seize every opportunity to compete.
Ready to dive deeper into Ella’s inspiring story? Watch the full video to get all the details on her incredible season, her mental fortitude, and her plans for the upcoming World Championships!
