Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-06 04:00:20
The Leighton Kings once again proved their dominance in African polo over the weekend, securing a hard-fought victory over Art Hotel Shoreline to retain the coveted Majekodunmi Cup at the ongoing Lagos International Polo Tournament. The tournament, held at Polo Club, Ribadu Road, Ikoyi, showcased some of the biggest players in the sport from around the world and the Leighton Kings emerged as the most successful team of the 2024 GTCO Lagos International Polo Fiesta.
In a thrilling final match, the Eko polo kings defeated Art Hotel Shoreline with a score of 10-9. The winning goal came off a penalty in the final seconds of the explosive six-chukka encounter, solidifying the Leighton Kings’ claim to the title. The team also clinched the Independence Cup, adding another trophy to their already impressive collection. With two titles under their belt, they demonstrated their formidable skills on the field and solidified their reputation as a revered polo team.
Patron of the Leighton Kings, Bowale Jolaoso, expressed his excitement after the tense final match, stating, “It’s unbelievable. I couldn’t describe the first time we won so I don’t know how to put this one into words.” He added, “It could have gone either way after they (Art Hotel Shoreline) drew level late in the last chukka, but our winning edge tilted it in our favor.”
Art Hotel Shoreline, while finishing as runners-up in both the Majekodunmi Cup and the Independence Cup, showcased their skill and determination throughout the tournament. They previously defeated the visiting Abuja Rubicon team to lift the Italian Ambassador’s Cup, earning them recognition as the second-best performing Lagos-based high-goal team of the 120th edition of the international polo festival.
The second week of the fiesta also saw other notable victories, including Sheyi Onyinola leading Team Lagos 1974 to victory in the Governor’s Cup, and Team Lagos 1904 securing the Lagos Heritage Cup to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the State of Aquatic Splendor.
The event drew support from a collection of sponsors, including GTCO, Arbico, Vueve Clicquot, ChapelHill Denem, BUA, Metro Capital, and MTN, exemplifying the continued interest and investment in the sport of polo.
The final week of the festival will feature low-goal teams vying for the Silver Cup from February 13 to 18, 2024, promising more exciting matches and showcasing the talent and passion present in the sport of polo. With four weeks of thrilling competition, the 2024 Lagos International Polo Fiesta has once again highlighted the skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie of the polo community.
