At the just concluded 2021 National Youth Games in Ilorin, Kwara State, team Ogun did not disappoint after days of competitive show.
The multi sports event had more than 30 states in attendance, with Enugu, Gombe and Zamfara the states who refused to put a contingent forward.
With a total of 45 medals, 8 gold, 13 Silver and 24 Bronze medals, team Ogun emerged the 8th best team, a feat which is encouraging considering several factors prior to the event.
It’s worthy of mention that the Ogun State Deaf Athletics Association contributed to that success, here is a look into how they did an amazing job.
It was a case of showcasing the ability in disability, their resilience, passion and commitment did not go unnoticed.
(1) Ikusigbagbe Abigael
She won a Silver medal in the 100 metres where she was only inferior to team Lagos, Abigael also delivered a bronze medal in the 200 metres event.
(2) Okeowo Timileyin
A bronze medalist in the 100 metres male for the special category.
(3) Adegelu Tobi
He delivered a bronze in the 400 metres.
While there are other special athletes across Nigeria, it is not out of place to believe that the lads from Ogun State, if well nurtured and properly cared for could represent Nigeria at the paralympics in future.
Kudos to the Ogun State government under the Leadership of his Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for giving the athletes an opportunity to compete despite having one or two physical challenges, with more sporting events at home, Ogun State athletes will in no distant time get to the Pinnacle of their career globally.
Kudos should go to other special athletes who also competed but couldn’t win any medal, they are Champions already, they will never be forgotten
The coaches tutoring the athletes at the state sports council have also shown that they are extremely capable.
Chairman , Ogun State Deaf Athletics Association, Chief Gbenga Abijo who is in ecstasy at the moment, he said he’s proud of the athletes and promised to keep giving them support.