By Usman Aliyu
Team Edo continues its golden run at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun, with standout performances in cycling and parapowerlifting.
A cycling sensation, Osaretin Godwins picked a gold medal for the state in the women’s 200m sprint at the festival, tagged Gateway 2024.
Godwins put on a masterclass of speed and endurance, surging past strong contenders from Oyo and Rivers states to secure victory.
The teenage prodigy had stamped her authority on the tracks by beating Nigeria’s first female cycling Olympian, Ese Ukpeseraye, in the semifinals, a feat that drew cheers and admiration from spectators.
She made her debut at the last National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta, as one of Edo’s junior cyclists.
Then, she competed against top-tier athletes like Ukpeseraye and Oyo’s Joke Durogbade, gaining invaluable experience despite falling short of a podium finish.
Godwins’s triumph on Ogun is adjudged, remarkable considering her rapid rise in the sport.
Meanwhile, in the men’s 200m sprint event, Isa Momoh secured a bronze medal for the state, adding to Team Edo’s growing medal tally.
In parapowerlifting, Esther Onyema showcased her dominance in the 55kg category, earning a gold for the state.
Her victory was complemented by a silver and two bronze medals won by her teammates, further reinforcing Edo’s strong presence in the power sport.
