Departure and Arrival
The Bayelsa State Boxing Team embarked on their journey to the South-South Boxing Championship held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State, from May 20th to 23rd, 2024. Departing from Yenagoa at 11:45 am, the team, comprising 10 athletes (5 male and 5 female) and 4 officials, arrived in Benin City at 5:15 pm. The officials included Head Coach Tonye Agedah, Assistant Coach Peace Epia, Technical Officer Oyinimi Henry, and Secretary Nana Michael.
Athletes Roster
Male Athletes:
- Victory Godwin – 51kg
- Joseph Kemepadei – 64kg
- Joseph Israel – 67kg
- Precious Eki – 71kg
- Alamu Oladiran – 75kg
Female Athletes:
- Khadijat – 48kg
- Idara Happiness – 54kg
- Inemo Selemoboere – 60kg
- Zainab – 66kg
- Umnakwe Jacinta – 75kg
Day 1: Weigh-In and Medicals
On May 21st, the team started with weigh-ins and medical checks at 8:30 am, followed by a technical meeting where the draws were made. The first bouts began at 2:30 pm, with Bayelsa State facing Delta State in the opening fight. The Bayelsa team won the 48kg female bout but lost the 67kg male bout against Edo State. The team redeemed itself in the 70kg male bout against Akwa Ibom. The day concluded with fights ending at 8:30 pm.
Day 2: Continuation of Fights
On May 22nd, the fights continued. Bayelsa’s 75kg male athlete, Oladiran Alamu, faced Edo State but lost. Despite the setbacks, the team fought valiantly throughout the day. By the end of the championship, Bayelsa State secured the second position overall, winning 1 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze medals.
Medal Winners
- Gold: Eki Precious (71kg)
- Silver: Joseph Kemepadei (68kg), Udoete Happiness (57kg)
- Bronze: Kadijat Ajeshola (48kg female), Inemo Kemepade (60kg male), Victory Godwin (51kg male)
Conclusion
The championship saw participation from all South-South states, including Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, and Cross River States. Out of 12 available gold medals, Bayelsa secured 1 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze medals, highlighting both the team’s potential and areas for improvement.
Recommendations
- Talent Assessment: Evaluate if there are better boxers in the state who were not part of the championship and assess their potential.
- Athlete Development: The association should focus on further developing the current athletes.
- Funding: Increased funding is essential to enable the boxing association to participate in more championships and enhance training programs.
Final Thoughts
The Bayelsa State Boxing Team’s performance at the South-South Boxing Championship underscores the need for continued support and development. With the right resources and training, these athletes can achieve even greater heights in the future.
This report was packaged by Nana Michael.
