Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-24 03:43:13
The NPA/GTCO 2024 Lagos International Polo Tournament culminated in an action-packed final weekend, showcasing triumphs, disappointments, and astounding athletic achievements. Lagos-based teams stole the spotlight, dominating the competition across various categories. The month-long tournament, hosted by the prestigious Lagos Polo Club to commemorate 120 years of polo in Nigeria, drew to a close with the Leighton Kings emerging as the standout performers, clinching victories in the Majekodunmi Cup, Open Cup, and Logos Low Cup.
Led by Bowale Jolasho, the Leighton Kings delivered a stellar performance, triumphing over three formidable opponents to secure the prestigious Independence Cup. The Lagos Art Hotel Shoreline team further solidified the host city’s dominance by defeating the Abuja Rubicon team to claim the Italian Ambassador’s Cup. The Lagos Trojan Ark and STL teams also showcased their prowess, emerging as champions in the Chapelhill Dandem Open Cup and Oba of Lagos Cup, respectively.
Throughout the tournament, home teams showcased their superiority, with Lagos A+/A one and Lagos MSD Baby Bear teams adding the Low Cup and Chief of Naval Staff Cup to their list of accomplishments. With the exception of the Dapo Ojora Memorial Cup, which was claimed by the visiting Kaduna Sublime/Dangote team in the opening week, Lagos teams reigned supreme until the final weekend. The Ibadan team pulled off a surprising upset in the Silver Cup, denying the hosts the Sani Dangote Cup and earning the title of the best performing visiting team of the festival.
In addition to the thrilling polo action on the field, the tournament’s social scene lived up to its elite, stylish reputation. Guests were treated to a spectacle of entertainment, with a vibrant crowd that included dignitaries such as Obas, Emirs, business magnates, and society elites. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and celebration, as spectators immersed themselves in the magic of the ancient noble game.
Bode Makanjuola, the President of the Lagos Polo Club, expressed his delight at the success of the 2024 international tournament, praising the top Nigerian stars and foreign players who participated. He lauded the sponsors and partners for their unwavering support in promoting the sport in Nigeria, emphasizing the positive impact of their long-standing relationship with the club. The 2024 edition of the tournament was hailed as one of the most thrilling and memorable in recent years, underscoring the enduring legacy of polo in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole.
