By Tajudeen Ahmad
Three Nigerian female athletes in rowing and canoeing event on Sunday, 24th March, 2019 won bronze medals at the ongoing International Open India Canoe Sprint Championships.
The State of Osun born All African Games Gold medallist, Ayomide Bello spearheaded Nigeria to a bronze medal haul in the C1 female 500m, while Blessing Amusar and Hello won another bronze in the C2 double female 500m.
In the C1 category, Ayomide, who contested alongside her colleagues from China, India, Philippine, Tunisia among others bagged 3 gold medals in the event.
Secretary of the Nigeria Rowing, Sailing and Canoeing Federation (NRSCF), Mrs Bunmi Oluode while speaking with newsmen from India said four athletes are representing the country at the competition, adding that the Federation is delighted with the athletes’ performance, owing to the competitive atmosphere in India.
“We are happy with what the athletes have been able to achieve here in India by doing the country proud. We believe that more of this feat will be achieved in the remaining categories”, said the scribe.
Speaking on the development, the Director of Sports, Coaching and Training at the State of Osun Sports Council, Mr. Ademola Daini said “Ayomide is an ambitious athlete who always trains very hard and struggles for success. It is her hardwork and perseverance that assisted her to go this far”.
Mr. Daini assured that Ayomide’s performance has been brought to the notice of the State Government of Osun through the immediate past Commissioner for Sports, Social Protection and Special Needs, Comrade Biyi Odunlade who has been following the exploit of Ayomide since 2017 when she won 3 gold medals at the National Youth Games in Ilorin.
The State of Osun Swimming, Rowing, Canoeing and Kayak Coach, Mr. Oladele Joseph said it’s a dream come true for Ayomide who has not relaxed in rigorous training since last year, adding that this, coupled with her excellent performance at the National Sports Festival where she emerged the best Canoeist at the event made her to be chosen to represent the country.
Meanwhile, Ayomide will on Monday, 25th March, 2019 participate in the C1 female 200m final.
The 3 day-event holding in Bhopal, India will climax tomorrow.
