TEAM CROSS RIVER DEPART CALABAR FOR NATIONAL YOUTH GAMES ASABA 2024 WITH FULL SUPPORT FROM THE GOV. OTU
BY ETTAH EMMANUEL O.
Team Cross River, consisting of over 100 athletes and officials, has embarked on their journey from Calabar to Asaba for the National Youth Games 2024.
Team Cross River will be traveling with 63 athletes in the following sports:
- Athletics
- Table Tennis
- Swimming
- Chess
- Weightlifting
- Boxing
- Karate
- Judo
- Taewkondo
- Ayo
- Kokowa
- Basketball
The departure was marked by a stirring send-off organized by the Commissioner for Sport Development, Hon. Agnes Atsu, who addressed the athletes with a heartfelt message of encouragement.
In her speech, Hon. Atsu urged the athletes to excel and bring home victories in their respective sports. She expressed confidence in their abilities and highlighted the extensive support provided by the government under His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu. Atsu’s message underscored the government’s commitment to creating the best conditions for the athletes’ success, motivating them to perform at their peak.
The athletes, visibly inspired, expressed their gratitude to Sen. Prince Bassey Otu for the opportunity to represent Cross River. Their appreciation reflected the significant impact of the state’s support on their morale and preparation.
Additionally, Hon. Ekanem Ekpenyong, the Special Adviser on Sports Development to the governor, delivered a motivational address to the team. Ekpenyong’s words echoed the call for excellence and encouraged the athletes to aim for gold, further fueling their determination.
The comprehensive support from both the Commissioner and the SA illustrates the state’s dedication to fostering sports talent and ensuring that Team Cross River is well-prepared for the challenges ahead at the National Youth Games 2024.