The Nigerian will take some sizzling form into the race after running the 100 m in 10.33 to beat Patrick Johnson last week.

Lawal, who led for Nigeria in the 4x400 m relay at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games, will head a strong field with Matthew Callard, Derek Collinge, Matthew Eddy and Tom Burbidge also having claims.

The 59th annual carnival will also include the 70 m sprint, 100 m women’s handicap, 100 m veterans, 100 m novice and 400 m, 800 m and 1600 m handicap races.

Meanwhile OAK FM will put aside the uncertainty over its Ovens and Murray Football-Netball League coverage this season to broadcast the Burramine Gift meeting.

The Wangaratta-based station was informed this week its football broadcasts would not be taken on relay into Albury-Wodonga due to poor signal strength.

The Burramine Gift can be heard on 101.3FM from 1pm to 5pm with the broadcast including an O and M season preview.

“Rest assured we are trying to find a solution to the issues at hand,” commentator Des Lonergan said.

“We’ve been heartened by the response of our loyal band of listeners, who have told us how much the coverage means to them and others who cannot make it to games due to factors such as sickness or employment reasons.

“The coverage will go ahead on 101.3FM regardless, but we haven’t given up hope of having a presence in Albury-Wodonga.

“The O and M’s support in finding a solution has been appreciated.”