LSU Track and Field’s Explosive Start: Tima Godbless Shatters Records, Leads World, as Two Tigers Secure Eugene Berths

The roar of the crowd at the NCAA East First Round in Jacksonville, Florida, was not merely a testament to the competition, but a thunderous ovation for the electrifying performance of LSU’s own Tima Godbless. In a stunning display of raw power and precision, the sophomore sprint sensation unleashed a 100-meter dash that will forever be etched in the annals of collegiate track and field, clocking a mind-boggling 10.91 seconds. This phenomenal time not only secured her a decisive victory in her heat but also instantly became the fastest in the world for 2025, sending shockwaves through the global athletics community and firmly planting her name at the pinnacle of the sport’s early-season rankings. The sheer audacity of the performance, a massive personal best that obliterated her previous mark of 11.03 from last season’s regional meet and her 2025 season-best of 11.06 from the SEC Championships, has everyone talking. It’s a performance that positions her not just as a collegiate star, but as a legitimate contender on the international stage.

Godbless’s 10.91 is more than just a world lead; it’s a statement. It places her fourth on LSU’s illustrious all-time list, a roster that boasts legendary names in sprinting. Furthermore, it elevates her to the fourth fastest Nigerian woman in history and the sixth fastest in African history, a remarkable achievement for an athlete still in her sophomore year. Her first foray under the coveted 11-second barrier was nothing short of spectacular, joining an exclusive club of eight other LSU women who have achieved this feat. She now stands as the ninth-fastest performer in NCAA Championships history and remarkably, the second-fastest performer in the history of the NCAA East First Round, trailing only LSU legend Aleia Hobbs. The sheer velocity of her start, a hallmark of her burgeoning career, was on full display, prompting commentators and fans alike to exclaim “God bless that start!” as she exploded from the blocks, leaving her competitors in her wake. This dominant showing has not only punched her ticket to the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Oregon, but has also instilled a profound sense of anticipation for what she might achieve on the national stage.

But Tima Godbless wasn’t the only LSU Tiger to shine brightly and secure a coveted spot in Eugene. The first ticket of the weekend was punched by sophomore Trinity Spooner, a testament to the depth and versatility of the LSU track and field program. Spooner’s grit and determination were evident in the javelin throw, where she unleashed a clutch final throw of 51.03 meters (167-5) to secure the No. 11 qualifying spot. This marks a significant achievement for Spooner, as it’s her second consecutive season making the trip to the national championships, showcasing her consistency and ability to perform under pressure. Her return to Eugene underscores the foundational strength of the LSU field events squad and adds another layer of excitement to the Tigers’ national championship aspirations.

The prowess of LSU’s Nigerian contingent was further highlighted by the impressive performance of Ella Onojuvwevwo in the 400 meters. The junior, another standout from Nigeria, effortlessly commanded her heat, crossing the finish line in a winning time of 51.25 seconds. This commanding performance not only secured her a spot in the quarterfinals but also stood as the third-fastest time of the day among 48 competing athletes. Onojuvwevwo’s smooth and powerful stride is a sight to behold, and her ability to control her race with such authority suggests that she, too, will be a formidable force to reckon with in Eugene. Her advancement further solidifies LSU’s reputation as a hotbed for elite international talent.

The momentum continued for the Tigers, with Michaela Rose, a perennial threat in the 800 meters, advancing comfortably to the next round of her competition. Rose, known for her tactical brilliance and strong finishing kick, clocked an easy time of 2:01.75 to win her heat, demonstrating her control and readiness for the tougher rounds ahead. Her time was the second-fastest of the afternoon in Jacksonville, indicating she’s in excellent form and poised to contend for a national title. Rose’s consistent excellence provides a steady anchor for the LSU women’s distance events.

Adding to the day’s successes, Godbless returned to the track later in the day for the 200 meters, where she once again displayed her exceptional sprinting talent. She auto-qualified for the quarterfinals with a time of 22.80 seconds (-0.8 m/s), further showcasing her versatility and endurance across sprint distances. Alongside her, sophomore Aniyah Bigam also qualified for the NCAA East quarterfinals in the 200m for the second year in a row, clocking a time of 23.13 seconds (-1.1 m/s). This dual qualification in the 200 meters highlights the depth of LSU’s sprint program and their potential to rack up significant points at the national championships. The performances of Godbless and Bigam in the 200m set the stage for thrilling races in the upcoming rounds.

The NCAA East First Round is a crucible, a stage where dreams are realized and national championship bids are forged. LSU’s performances, particularly the historic run by Tima Godbless, signify that the Tigers are peaking at precisely the right time. The weather delays that characterized parts of the meet did little to dampen the spirits or slow the pace of these exceptional athletes. Instead, they seemed to fuel a heightened sense of determination. The collective efforts of the LSU track and field team, with their numerous entries across various events, underscore a well-rounded and deeply talented roster, ready to make a significant impact at the NCAA Championships in Eugene. As the competition progresses, the anticipation for what these Tigers will accomplish grows exponentially. The world lead by Tima Godbless is not just a personal triumph; it’s a beacon for the entire LSU program, signaling their intent to contend for national honors and establish themselves as one of the premier collegiate track and field programs in the nation. The journey to Eugene has begun with a flourish, and the LSU Tigers are roaring into the national spotlight with unparalleled confidence and undeniable talent.