GCU Relays Opens Entries, Steps Up Preparations for 8th Edition
The organisers of the Government College Ughelli (GCU) Relays have opened entries for interested secondary schools as preparations intensify for the eighth edition of the prestigious inter-school athletics competition.
The 2026 GCU Relays is scheduled for November 14, 2026, at Government College Ughelli, Delta State, with organisers also launching a fresh sponsorship drive to secure wider support for the competition.
Traditionally run as an invitational meet, the GCU Relays has over the years provided a competitive platform for young athletes from secondary schools across Nigeria to test their abilities, gain exposure and compete against some of the country's emerging talents.
However, organisers have again created room for schools outside the invitation list to express interest, with institutions demonstrating genuine commitment to participation eligible for consideration.
Novena University Staff School, Kwale, and Yewa College, Ilaro, are among schools that have previously taken advantage of the participation window.
Yewa College, in particular, produced one of the competition's memorable performances through sprinter Sunday Akintan, who dominated the second edition and set a 100m record that has remained intact over the years.
Government Secondary School, Kaduna, has already signalled its intention to be part of this year's competition.
Meanwhile, preparations at the host school have entered an advanced stage, with the organising structure strengthened through the reconstitution of various sub-committees.
Facilities are also receiving attention ahead of the event, including the school's tartan track and accommodation facilities for participating athletes and officials.
Sapele and School Houses have traditionally served as accommodation bases for the boys and girls respectively, while the newly reconstructed Forcados House is expected to expand the available accommodation capacity when the 2026 edition gets underway.
Forcados House, which is nearing completion, has been rebuilt in honour of Arco Group Chairman, Dr Alfred Okoigun.
The eighth edition will also feature the experience of Navy Commodore (Rtd) Omatseye Nesiama, who will deliver the event.
Nesiama is expected to serve as an International Starter at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, scheduled for November 6–10, only days before the GCU Relays.
The competition remains part of the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association's broader effort to revive and sustain healthy sporting rivalry among secondary schools while creating a pathway for talented young athletes to develop and gain valuable competitive experience.
With the countdown to November already underway, organisers are appealing to individuals, corporate bodies and other stakeholders to support the 2026 edition through sponsorship and partnerships.
According to the organisers, increased support will not only strengthen the staging of the competition but also help sustain its contribution to the discovery and development of Nigeria's next generation of athletics talents.
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