Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-13 03:24:24
Team Nigeria’s weightlifters have been dominating the competition at the ongoing African Games in Ghana. As of the weekend, Nigeria was ranked fourth on the medals table. However, the weightlifters showcased their talent on Monday and yesterday, bringing in a total of 15 gold medals and raising the country’s medal count to 22 gold medals.
The weightlifting events are taking place at the University of Ghana, Legon. On Monday, Adijat Olarinoye (55kg), Rafiatu Lawal (59kg), and Edidiong Umoafia (67kg) excelled in their respective weight categories, sweeping the snatch and clean and jerk events. Their impressive performances set the tone for Nigeria’s success in the weightlifting competition.
The momentum continued on the following day, with Ruth Ayodele and Joy Eze shining in their 64kg and 71kg classes. Ayodele showcased her strength by winning gold in both the snatch and clean and jerk events, lifting a total of 208kg to claim all three gold medals in her category. Eze also delivered a stellar performance in the 71kg class, securing three gold medals with her impressive lifts.
With the addition of six gold medals from Ayodele and Eze, the Nigerian weightlifters have now amassed a total of 15 gold medals in Accra. In total, the team has garnered 20 medals in the weightlifting event, including two silver and three bronze medals.
Prior to the weightlifting success, Nigeria had already secured seven gold medals in wrestling and badminton. The impressive performance of the weightlifters on the third day of the competition added nine more gold medals to Nigeria’s overall tally.
As it stands, Egypt currently leads the medals table with 47 gold, 19 silver, and 18 bronze medals. Nigeria follows closely in second place with 22 gold, 10 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Algeria and South Africa are in third and fourth place, with 15 gold, 20 silver, and 20 bronze medals, and 12 gold, 15 silver, and 22 bronze medals respectively.
The success of Team Nigeria’s weightlifters at the African Games is a testament to their dedication and hard work. Their outstanding performances have not only elevated Nigeria’s position on the medals table but have also showcased the country’s strength in the sport of weightlifting.
