Team Ondo athletes on Sunday recorded impressive performances at the ongoing second edition of the U-20 Niger-Delta Sports Festival at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State, clinching two gold medals.

Anuoluwapo Akinola opened the medal haul for the state, winning gold in the para-powerlifting 86+kg category to become the first athlete to secure a medal for Ondo at the festival.

Also in swimming, Patience Nigeria, added the second gold in the 200 metres freestyle event, while Samuel Abiodun contributed to the tally with a bronze medal in the 50 metres backstroke bringing the state’s medal haul to three.

Meanwhile, in basketball, Ondo State boys defeated Abia 32–20 in their opening match, while the female team edged Cross River 27–24.

The state’s volleyball team also impressed, with Ondo defeating Cross River 2–0 in their opening game before securing another 2–0 victory over Delta State in their second match.

In tennis, Zayan Rahman advanced to the semi-finals of the boys’ singles event after defeating his Delta State opponent 2–0.

The Ondo’s women’s handball team also recorded a commanding 28–4 victory over Rivers State.

Speaking with journalists after her victory, Patience Nigeria, expressed delight at winning gold for the state.

“If you train very well, you will reap the rewards at the end of every competition. I thank the Niger Delta Development Commission for organising this competition,” she said.

She expressed happiness to have made Ondo State proud, adding that she began swimming at a very tender age after being discovered during a competition at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure. 

(NAN)