The first sub-regional multi-sport event was held at the Ibom Meridien Resort in Nigeria, with athletes from Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo and Rivers states competing in 17 sports.
Earlier this month, the African nation hosted individual and doubles canoeing events, with medals awarded in the following categories: Men’s C1 200m, Women’s C1 200m, Men’s C1 500m, Women’s C1 500m, Men’s C2 500m and Women’s C2 500m.
Canoeing continues to develop in Nigeria thanks to training programmes run by the International Canoe Federation (ICF). The country also benefited from the ICF’s domestic boat production programme in 2018, which allowed national federations to purchase boats at a reduced cost while supporting local businesses.
One of the competitors was Goodluck Lawrence, who hails from Bayelsa State in southern Nigeria, where paddling for fishing is an integral part of community life.
“My dream is to transform our natural way of life into something that brings greatness to my state through sport,” said Goodluck Lawrence, a fisherman-turned-athlete with role models to look up to.
Last year, Ayomide Powei Bello and Beauty Akinaere Otuedo, two athletes involved in the ICF Talent Identification Programme, represented Nigeria in the women’s C2 500m at the Paris Olympics. Ola Oluode, Secretary General of the Nigerian Rowing, Canoeing and Sailing Federation, highlighted the importance of such competitions.
“It was fantastic to have all the states represented in canoeing during the first Niger Delta Sports Festival,” said Oluode, who is also Vice President of the Confederation of African Canoeing and a member of the ICF Board.
What may be taken for granted in some countries is still evolving in places like Nigeria, where adaptation is key. “Sitting in the canoe is the traditional local way of paddling, so we’re training the younger generation in the professional kneeling technique. Despite many of them paddling in home-made boats, almost all of them were able to balance after just a few hours of practice,” he said.
The ICF continues its policy of providing equipment and facilities to regions facing challenges. The governing body recognises that increased visibility helps to inspire and motivate young people, thereby increasing participation.
Competitions in Nigeria have given younger athletes the opportunity to interact with other competitors and test their skills. In other countries, such as Trinidad and Tobago, the ICF has donated equipment – notably ten surf skis – as part of a long-term development project with local organisations. These boats are designed to attract newcomers to paddle sports. For young people who have difficulty accessing the sport, this type of equipment provides a starting point, and time will tell whether these beginners will become professional athletes.
Courtesy:insidethegame
