A member of Nigeria's Sydney 2000 gold winning 4x400m relay quartet, Clement Chukwu, believes that athletes need education on how to effectively combine sports with the academics. The former African champion over 400m graduated from the Eastern Michigan University and was inducted into the institution's Hall of Fame in 2011.
He also won gold medals at the 1997 Universiade, and a silver medal at the 1999 All-Africa Games. "It's amazing why the athletes are no longer interested in education," he said. "I was in Enugu a couple of years ago with forms from my school; I went to the stadium and met a few athletes whom I thought had prospects was surprised that they showed no interest in the academics.
"I don't think they are ignorant but I feel they need more education on the importance of school. I was encouraged by my coach and some of the ex-athletes to pursue education. I was really hoping that some of the ex-athletes in Nigeria are in a better position and should be role models in helping these kids."
That is why education will always be the best legacy.