Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-07 03:08:52
Nigerian weightlifters have been delivering outstanding performances at the ongoing African Senior Weightlifting Championship in Cairo. The team has already secured an impressive six medals, with Rafiatu Folashade Lawal and Adijat Adenike Olarinoye emerging as the standout stars of the first day of competition.
Competing in the 59kg women’s category, Lawal and Adijat showcased their dominance in the event, ultimately securing the top prizes on day one of the Championship. This event also serves as the Paris 2024 Olympics qualifier, adding even more significance to their accomplishments.
Lawal, who previously claimed the gold medal in Tunisia last year, once again asserted her superiority in the category by winning all three available gold medals. She commenced her successful day with a gold medal in the snatch event, lifting an impressive 95kg. She followed this up with another gold in the clean and jerk category, lifting an astounding 119kg, before ultimately clinching her third gold medal in the total category with a lift of 214kg.
Not to be outdone, Adijat put on an equally impressive performance, repeating her achievement from the previous year. Once again, she secured all three silver medals, lifting 94kg in the snatch event, 115kg in the clean and jerk category, and achieving a total lift of 209kg.
The Nigerian team’s success did not end there, as Edidiong Umoafia Joseph also made significant contributions to the medal tally. Competing in the 73kg men’s category, Joseph showcased his skills and determination, despite previously competing with an injury at the Tunisia 2023 edition. His efforts were rewarded with a silver and two bronze medals, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to Nigeria’s quest for more medals and a spot in the Paris Olympics in July.
Nigeria’s participation in the championship will be complete when Joy Eze Ogbonne competes in the 71kg women’s category. The team has already set a high standard for success, and Ogbonne will undoubtedly aim to continue the impressive run of performances displayed by her teammates.
Overall, the Nigerian weightlifting team’s outstanding performances on the first day of the African Senior Weightlifting Championship have not only demonstrated their individual talents but have also showcased the strength and depth of the country’s weightlifting program. As the competition continues, the team will undoubtedly be looking to add to their medal tally and secure their places at the prestigious Paris 2024 Olympics. With their exceptional dedication and skill, the Nigerian weightlifters are certainly making their mark on the international stage and garnering attention for their impressive achievements.
