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Athletes Gear Up For WTF Youth Olympics Qualifiers; World Junior Championships

Nigerian athletes selected for the World Taekwondo Federation Youth Olympics Qualifiers as well as the World Junior Championships in Chinese Taipei, are getting set to … Continue reading Athletes Gear Up For WTF Youth Olympics Qualifiers; World Junior Championships


TaekwondoNigerian athletes selected for the World Taekwondo Federation Youth Olympics Qualifiers as well as the World Junior Championships in Chinese Taipei, are getting set to impress at the international tournaments.

The nine invited athletes, who are gold medalists at the maiden National Youth Games, are currently camping contingent in Abuja as part of preparations for the championships scheduled for March 20 to 27.

The captain of the team, Shola Olowookere of Lagos State said: “I feel great to be representing Nigeria for the very first time. It has not been difficult to combine my school with participating in sports. The camp has been interactive, and we have learnt so much from each other.”

Also, Mohammed Bashir of Yobe said: “Training in camp has been educative, and I have learnt a lot. Speed techniques and movement are some of those key areas I have learnt some things. I hope I can win a medal in Taiwan Insha Allah.

“It exposes the youth to international competition, and makes us to feel the Olympics is not only for the adults but for us as well. It feels great to be one of the people to participate in this upcoming championships representing Nigeria. By the special grace of God, we will make Nigeria proud,” said Abdullah Adegoke of Osun State.

For Iniobong Ekong of Bayelsa, representing Nigeria is a big honour. “This is the first time I will be competing for Nigeria, and I feel great about it. I feel like I can win a medal. I have finished my secondary school, but I have not taken JAMB to enroll in the university because of funds. I hope this trip can open an opportunity so I can be given a scholarship. In Taipei, I expect to see other young people like me, but they have arms and legs like us. The little camp has been good, because I have learnt many things and my stamina has increased,” she said.

However, 2008 Beijing Olympics medalist, Chika Chukwumerije explains the gains for the athletes.

“Two or three of them stand a slight chance, but I do not expect them to win medals on their very first international competition with no prior international experience and extended training. They are all eager to do well and win medals; their drive and passion is worth all the investment.

“For me, participation will change their lives; they will see new places, meet young people from all over the world, form healthy relationships, and learn new competitive tactics and strategies. The inspiration from this trip would ensure and guarantee future success. Most importantly, it would increase Nigeria Taekwondo chances for next year’s AAG and Rio Olympics.”