Athletic Heat has unveiled a major highlight of its 10th Anniversary Meet, with Nigeria’s national 100m record holder Ajayi Kayinsola set to have the blue-riband sprint event named in his honour.

 The men’s 100m will be contested as the Ajayi Kayinsola 100m Showdown when athletes converge on the Yabatech Sports Complex in Lagos on November 7, 2026.

 The recognition holds special significance for Ajayi, whose connection to Yabatech dates back to the early stages of his sprinting career. The venue played an important role in his development, serving as one of the tracks where he began making his mark in athletics and recorded some of his fastest times as a young athlete.

 Ajayi returned to the venue for a special unveiling ahead of the anniversary meet, where he also announced a personal contribution towards the development of athletics in Nigeria.

 The Nigerian sprint star will provide cash prizes for the top eight finishers in the men’s 100m, adding an extra incentive to the headline event.

 Athletic Heat CEO Ese Oguma welcomed the honour and Ajayi’s contribution, describing the sprinter as a fitting choice because of both his achievements and his longstanding connection to the Yabatech track.

 “I’m very happy to have Ajayi Kayinsola named after this event. I didn’t see anyone else who could fit this title, not just because he is the national record holder, but also because of his connection to this track.

 “Ajayi and I trained under Coach David Sule/Arena Academy on this track, and I’m glad to see how far he has grown. I would also like to say a big thank you for his donation, as there hasn’t been any competition in Nigeria in recent years where the Top 8 are awarded. So it’s a great development and a boost for the athletes.”

 The tribute comes during a standout year for Ajayi, whose performances in 2026 have further raised his profile on the international sprinting scene and provided another major spotlight for Nigerian athletics.

 His journey from developing his talent on the Yabatech track to becoming Nigeria’s national 100m record holder provides a natural link between the sprinter and the anniversary celebration.

 The Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet will bring together leading Nigerian athletes for a celebration of athletics and the organisation’s decade-long contribution to the sport.

 With further event names and athlete tributes expected to be announced in the coming days, Athletic Heat is continuing preparations for what promises to be a landmark 10th Anniversary celebration.

 The Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet is scheduled for November 7, 2026, at the Yabatech Sports Complex in Lagos.