189 athletes to represent Kwara at National Sports Festival, as contigent departs Ilorin
The Kwara State contingent to the National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, on friday departed Ilorin for Abeokuta, Ogun State capital ahead of the official opening ceremony of the multi-sporting event scheduled for Sunday.
Speaking during a media briefing at the Handball Court of the Kwara State Sports Commission, the Executive Chairman, Coach Bola Mogaji, announced that Team Kwara will feature in 25 sporting events, with 189 athletes set to represent the state, making it all a total of 302 contingent.
Coach Mogaji disclosed that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved adequate funding and logistics to ensure the team’s successful participation, with a strong emphasis on achieving podium finishes
He also urged athletes to shun win-at-all-cost mentality that could lead to illicit drug use or unethical behaviour.
“With the level of preparation and commitment from our athletes and coaches, I am confident that Team Kwara will surpass its previous medal record,” he stated.
In her remarks, Team Captain, Blessing Isaac, affirmed that the athletes are fully prepared and committed to upholding the rules and regulations of the festival.
She appreciated the Sports Commission for its continued motivation and support leading into the two-week national sports fiesta.
Team Kwara will compete in several events, including Football, Swimming, Chess, Dart, Athletics, Badminton, Tennis, Volleyball, Wushu Kungfu, Taekwondo, Squash, Ayo, Wrestling, Boxing, Judo, Cricket, among others.
Kwara finished 18th position in the last sports festival in Delta State, having won a total of 48 medals: 4 gold-8 silver and 37 Bronze medal.
