Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-06 04:00:20
Leighton Kings once again proved their dominance in African polo over the weekend as they secured victory over Art Hotel Shoreline, successfully retaining the highly coveted Majekodunmi Cup at the ongoing Lagos International Polo Tournament held at Polo Club, Ribadu Road, Ikoyi.
The impressive win solidified their status as one of the most revered sides in African polo and solidified their position as the most successful team at the month-long 2024 GTCO Lagos International Polo Fiesta, which featured some of the biggest players from across the world.
In a hard-fought final, the Eko polo kings emerged victorious with a narrow 10-9 win over Art Hotel Shoreline. The winning goal came from a penalty in the last second of the intense six-chukka encounter. This victory also added the Independence Cup to their trophy cabinet, bringing their total title haul for the year to two.
Patron of Leighton Kings, Bowale Jolaoso, expressed his disbelief and excitement following the tense final match. He stated, “It’s unbelievable. I couldn’t describe the first time we won, so I don’t know how to put this one into words. 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 favour.”
Art Hotel Shoreline, despite finishing as runners-up in both the Majekodunmi Cup and the Independence Cup, showcased their strength by defeating the visiting Abuja Rubicon team earlier in the week to lift the Italian Ambassador’s Cup, earning them the title of 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 a number of other standout winners, including Sheyi Onyinola, who led the Team Lagos 1974 to victory in the Governor’s Cup against Team Lagos 2010. Team Lagos 1904, comprised of emerging talents such as Tayo Ojora, Adebayo Karim, Osaro Omoruyi, and Mohammed Dangote, also achieved success by securing the Lagos Heritage Cup, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the State of Aquatic Splendor.
The event once again garnered support from a collection of esteemed sponsors, with GTCO leading the pack along with Arbico, Vueve Clicquot, ChapelHill Denem, BUA, Metro Capital, and MTN.
The fourth and final week of the yearly event will feature a crowd of equally matched low-goal teams vying for the Silver Cup from February 13 to 18, 2024.
With a thrilling mix of talent, determination, and sportsmanship, the Lagos International Polo Tournament continues to be a highlight of the African polo calendar. It is a testament to the enduring passion and commitment to the sport, as well as the talent and dedication of the players who participate.
