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Divine Iheme Aims for 100m World Record at National Championship While Making Waves in UK Sprinting
Divine Iheme is set to make a bold attempt at a world record in the 100 meters during the upcoming National Championship.
As the fastest 14-year-old in Britain, Divine has earned a nickname that suits his athletic prowess.
“Everyone knows him as ‘Lightning’ Divine,” remarked his mother, Nkiruku Iheme, emphasizing her son’s burgeoning status as a sprinting prodigy. After achieving UK best times for both the 100m and 200m earlier this year, ‘Lightning’ Divine is now viewed as a potential star on the track.
In June, Divine shattered his personal best in the 100m with an impressive time of 10.65 seconds. Although he has recorded even faster times, they went unrecognized for official records due to wind assistance during those races.
While elite athletes gear up for the Paris Olympic Games this weekend, Divine will be channeling his energy toward establishing a new world record for his age category at the National Championship.
“He has his eyes set on the record and is determined to surpass it,” Nkiruku stated. “His goal is to break the world junior U15 record.”
This current record stands at 10.51 seconds, and Divine has clocked times of 10.46, albeit under conditions that did not allow for official recognition. His undeniable talent is further evidenced by his performance in relay events, where he has showcased remarkable speed by closing gaps rapidly for his team.
Divine’s dominance in the 200m has also been notable; he won his heat by a significant margin and secured a double victory at the England Athletics indoor championships.
Inspired by Legendary Sprinters
To aid in his dramatic rise, Divine frequently studies the races of renowned sprinters. However, he makes it clear that he does not attempt to mimic their techniques.
“I’ve watched many races of Usain Bolt and Allyson Felix. The first race I viewed was Bolt’s world record 200m at 19.19 seconds, which sparked my dream of becoming a sprinter,” Divine shared.
“I try to propel off the bend in the 200m and maintain my lead until I finish. I believe my running style is unique and natural—it’s a talent I’ve been given.”
Both of Divine’s parents are accomplished athletes who represented Nigeria in the 2002 Commonwealth Games, providing a legacy of athletic excellence in their family.
“If he keeps progressing, we could see him finish the season running in the 10.4 to 10.3 second range,” Nkiruku remarked, optimistic about Divine’s future in sprinting. “He’s got the speed, technique, and the mindset to excel.”
Divine acknowledges that pursuing a full-time career in athletics poses challenges for him and his family. He has received crucial support from Michael Ofo of SOS Management, who also manages heavyweight boxer Fabio Wardley.
Aiming for a Bright Future
“I strive to make my parents proud and hope to provide for them in the future—buying gifts, a house, and ensuring they live well,” Divine said. “My goal is to bring them happiness and a fulfilling life.”
As he continues to break national records and gain recognition, Divine finds himself at a crossroads with representing Nigeria or Great Britain on the international stage.
“Though I have Nigerian roots, I was born here and have had access to free education and support. I feel inclined to run for Great Britain, as they have been instrumental in my upbringing,” he revealed.
Dina Asher-Smith’s Words of Encouragement
As Divine prepares for his competition, fellow British sprinter and Olympic medal hopeful Dina Asher-Smith has extended her encouragement. He will be eagerly watching the Olympics, where the world’s best sprinters will compete, envisioning himself as part of that elite group.
“I can picture myself on the start line, focusing and ready to run the race of my life,” Divine said, expressing his aspirations while preparing for his own upcoming challenges.
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