Gateway Games Day 5: Bayelsa Conquers Weightlifting, Claims 9 Gold 

By Samuel Akpan Live in Abeokuta

Team Bayelsa has emerged as the undisputed powerhouse in weightlifting at the ongoing Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival, claiming nine gold medals to consolidate their dominance in the sport.

The impressive haul came from stellar performances across multiple categories at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Sagamu, where the weightlifting event was held.

The Bayelsa team dominated the Women’s +87kg category, with Caroline Albert lifting her way to three gold medals with a snatch of 100kg, clean & jerk of 120kg, and a combined total of 220kg.

Persecondnews correspondent covering the games, reports that in the Men’s 102kg class, Adeyemi Abayomi powered through to a gold treble with lifts of 140kg (snatch), 175kg (clean & jerk), and a 315kg total.

Bayelsa’s sweep continued in the Men’s +109kg, with Lucky Joseph claiming another set of three golds (145kg snatch, 175kg clean & jerk, 320kg total).

The team’s performance was impressive, with their athletes showing great skill and determination.

Delta State secured three gold medals, with Desmond Akano retaining his title in the Men’s 96kg and repeating his triple gold medal feat from the last festival in Asaba.

Bosa Uchenna of Delta State also caused an upset in the Women’s 81kg category, defeating favourite Taiwo Liadi of Team Oyo to grab three gold medals.

The President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, commended the high level of the competition and promised that the federation would keep close tabs on standout athletes.

“We have seen new discoveries and young lifters with tremendous potential,” Dr. Abdul said.

“We will be working with state associations to ensure proper monitoring and grooming.”

Abdul thanked the board members, referees, coaches, the NWF Secretariat, and the media for their support and professionalism throughout the event.

The sports festival’s weightlifting competition once again highlighted the immense talent and potential within Nigerian athletes.

The Nigerian Weightlifting Federation’s (NWF) ongoing development efforts are clearly poised for future success.

Team Bayelsa’s dominant performance in weightlifting is a testament to their dedication and hard work.

Their achievements at the festival have set a new benchmark for the sport in Nigeria, and anticipation will be high to see their future performances.