Powerlifting
By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Lagos, April 24, 2018 (NAN) Mr Feyisetan Are, the national coach of Nigeria Para-Powerlifting Federation (NPPF), has attributed the successful outing of lifters in the just-concluded Commonwealth Games to support from fans.
Are told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos that they received significant encouragement and prayers as support which boosted their performance in the events.
NAN reports that Nigeria recorded four gold and two silver medals in powerlifting event in the Games tagged: “Gold Coast 2018’’, held in Queensland, Australia, from April 4 to April 15.
“We really appreciate everyone who has in one way or the other supported us before and during the Games, because it gingered us and contributed to our achievements.
“In all, I return all glory to God Almighty for journey mercies, good health and for giving us the opportunity to live up to expectations by bringing honour to the nation.
“We went and conquered by sweeping available gold medals plus two silver in powerlifting and today, everybody is happy with us and we are also proud of ourselves,’’ he said.
Are, urged the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to improve on its welfare package to encourage the lifters to do more in subsequent Games.
“As special athletes that have consistently made the nation proud, we deserve the best from the government through bonuses and allowances for coaching crew as well as lifters.
“We need a federation’s bus to facilitate our movements because of our physical state. It is not a luxury, but necessity that should be part of the things we enjoy from government,’’ he said.
Are added that there was need to make provisions for the lifters to participate in various international championships as it would help to get them in better shape for major competitions.
While commending the NPPF president for cash gift, he appealed to the government, corporate organisation and individuals to follow suit as a way to appreciate the team.
“Other countries are celebrating their champions in various ways, which our president has just done, and I expect that others should also appreciate us and put smiles on our faces,’’ he said.
The coach, who was seen conducting training in the powerlifting gym, national stadium, said he needed to prepare the lifters for the forthcoming World Championships in May in France.
“On a good day, I am expected to observe my rest, but the championships at stake requires me to be available to ensure that our lifters are in top shape for the competition,’’ he said.
Are added that he would always ensure that lifters had adequate preparations that would place them on the medals table in any championships that Nigeria featured. (NAN)
MIL/KTO/PDE
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(Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo/Peter Ejiofor)