By Anne Azuka
Athletics events at the ongoing 9th National Youth Games in Asaba are set to begin on Tuesday, with coaches intensifying final training sessions at the main bowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium.
Athletes from states including Edo and Niger were seen putting finishing touches to their preparations, expressing confidence in their ability to win medals.
Abubakar Rabiu Tanimu of Niger State, the defending champion in the 800 metres, said he was fully prepared to retain his crown.
“I am running in the 400 and 800 metres. I have trained hard and I’m ready to deliver two gold medals for Niger State, as I promised my coach. This is my second time at the National Youth Games. I won the 800 metres last year and I’m here to defend my title,” Tanimu said.
Other athletes expressed similar determination ahead of their races in the 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m events.
Edo State athletics coach, Abdul Wasiu Mustapha, also voiced optimism, noting that his athletes were well-prepared following intensive training sessions. He said Edo State has 28 representatives in both track and field, with expectations of winning at least ten gold medals.
Mustapha praised Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Edo State Sports Commission chairman for providing financial, moral, and technical support to the team, saying the backing has boosted their confidence for a strong showing in Asaba.
