Ese Brume’s journey to becoming a multiple medalist in long jump is a testament to perseverance, unwavering faith, and the profound impact of mentorship. Her story, as shared on the Special Delivery Podcast, unveils the layers of sacrifice, determination, and spiritual grounding that have propelled her from a high school track in Delta State to the world stage. It began serendipitously when her games master selected her to represent the school in a 400m race, a decision that would alter the trajectory of her life. This initial exposure led to her participation in the National School Sports Festival in 2008, where she encountered coach Kayode Yaya, a figure who would become instrumental in her development, not just as an athlete, but as a person. His belief in her potential, coupled with his insightful guidance and spiritual mentorship, ignited a spark within Brume, setting her on a path to greatness.
From her early days competing at the National School Sports Festival, Brume displayed a competitive spirit and an unyielding drive to improve. Finishing second behind a state champion fueled her ambition, and the encouragement from figures like the then-Governor of Delta State, Uduaghan, and Amaju Pinnick further solidified her resolve. Each competition became a stepping stone, a chance to learn and grow. Her sixth-place finish in Port Harcourt, behind foreign-based athletes, sparked a determination to surpass them in future competitions. This resolve materialized at the Eko 2012 National Sports Festival, where she secured second place, trailing only Blessing Okagbare. This marked a significant milestone, validating her progress and bolstering her confidence.
The year 2013 saw Brume’s star continue to rise with a victory in the long jump at the Africa Junior Championships in Mauritius, adding to her growing list of accomplishments. The following year, despite holding the world-leading position, she faced a setback at the World Junior Championships, failing to reach the finals. However, what could have been a disheartening experience transformed into a defining moment. Initially denied participation in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow due to doubts about her ability to compete at the senior level, Brume, with the intervention of the Technical Director, ultimately travelled to Glasgow and stunned everyone by clinching the gold medal. This unexpected triumph not only validated her potential but also served as a resounding statement of her resilience and determination.
The year 2014, her breakthrough year, was followed by the adversity of injury in 2015, hampering her performance and forcing her to compete in the African Games with an injured leg. Despite this setback, Brume persevered, refusing surgery and pushing through to compete in the 2016 Rio Olympics. While her fifth-place finish was commendable, it fueled her desire for more. Balancing her athletic career with her academic pursuits became a new challenge as she gained admission to the University of Eastern Mediterranean in Cyprus. The lack of proper training facilities and a compatible coach prompted her to advocate for her long-time mentor, coach Kayode, to join her in Cyprus. Recognizing her talent and potential, the university not only employed coach Kayode but also offered Brume a scholarship, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing her holistic growth.
Brume’s success story extends beyond her physical prowess and rigorous training; it’s deeply interwoven with her spiritual life. She credits her strong faith and the guidance of Coach Kayode, who introduced her to his faith, as foundational elements in her journey. This spiritual grounding provides her with strength, focus, and a sense of purpose that transcends the competitive arena. For Brume, the purpose of her athletic achievements extends beyond personal accolades, serving as an inspiration for young girls who look up to her. This sense of purpose fuels her dedication and motivates her to constantly strive for excellence.
Each medal holds a unique significance for Brume, reflecting specific challenges overcome and personal growth achieved. While the Glasgow gold medal marked her breakthrough on the international stage, her Olympic medals hold a special place, representing her unwavering dedication and the sacrifices she made to reach the pinnacle of her sport. Her 2018 experience, where she was unjustly denied participation in the Commonwealth Games due to a perceived injury, fueled her determination to prove her doubters wrong. She subsequently achieved a remarkable 6.82m jump, shattering the meet record and vindicating her capabilities. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, presented new challenges, including logistical hurdles and the added pressure of competing amidst a global crisis. Despite these obstacles, Brume, along with fellow athlete Tobi Amusan, persevered through prayer and fasting, ultimately securing a bronze medal. This victory was even sweeter considering the initial undervaluing by commentators and the adversity faced.
The bond between Brume and Coach Kayode is more than just athlete and coach; it’s a partnership built on trust, shared values, and mutual respect. Brume’s insistence on having Coach Kayode by her side, even in the face of pressure from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) to work with other coaches, speaks volumes about their unique connection. His presence provides her with not only technical guidance but also the emotional and spiritual support she needs to thrive. This unwavering support system is a crucial element in her success, enabling her to overcome challenges and perform at her best. Brume’s pre-competition rituals, which involve fasting, prayer, and worship, demonstrate her deep-rooted faith and the importance of spiritual preparation in her athletic endeavors. These practices provide her with focus, inner peace, and a connection to a higher power, allowing her to enter competitions with confidence and a sense of purpose.
