2024 GUSA Games: UG’s Nakousi wins double gold, breaks 1500m record on debut

Gabriel Tecco Mensah
Gabriel Tecco Mensah
3 Min Read

University of Ghana’s long-distance runner, David Nakousi, claimed gold in all the events he competed in during the 28th edition of the Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) Games, held at the University of Cape Coast.

Nakousi participated in two disciplines on Monday, January 13, beginning with the 5000m event.

Despite his victory, Nakousi admitted to Univers Sports that his timing fell short of his expectations.

“I feel amazing. I achieved my personal position, but not the time. The time was very bad for me, but I will take it like that and manage it,” he said.

From one gold medal to another, Nakousi proved his mettle on the first day of athletics. Minutes after his 5000m triumph, he competed in the 1500m event, where he not only secured another gold medal but also shattered the long-standing GUSA Games record.

The previous record, set by former University of Ghana student Mohammed Aziz in 2022 with an impressive time of 3:56.30, was surpassed by Nakousi, who clocked an incredible 3:48.11. Remarkably, this was his first appearance at the GUSA Games.

After achieving this milestone, Nakousi shared his excitement with Univers Sports’ Gabriel Tecco Mensah:

“Breaking the 1500m record is one of the most exciting moments of my life. I wasn’t expecting to break that record, but by God’s grace, I did it. I am so glad and excited that my name is now part of the GUSA history books.”

Another standout performer from the University of Ghana was Seidu Salifu, who finished second in the 5000m race. Speaking to Gabriel Tecco Mensah, Salifu explained that he conserved energy for the grueling 10,000m event scheduled for the next day—a strategy that paid off handsomely, as he went on to win the 10,000m convincingly, leaving his competitors far behind.

“We give thanks to Almighty Allah for this opportunity. I’m grateful to finish second in the 5000m. I didn’t put in much effort because I needed to save enough strength for the 10,000m tomorrow,” Salifu said.

Seidu Salifu stormed his way to victory in the 10,000m on January 14

Team UG dominated the track events, amassing an impressive total of seven gold medals in track events  alone, highlighting their exceptional focus and preparation in the sport.

Story by: Gabriel Tecco Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh

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