African Champion, Rita Ogene believes karate can win gold medals at the ongoing 13th African Games in Ghana.
Ogene who is the captain of the women’s team revealed the athletes will take every chance presented during their bouts.
The multiple national champion told www.aclsports.com that the various national/international championships have helped prepare the athletes for the African Games.
She said, “The team is aiming high as we compete at the African Games and by the Grace of God, victory is ours.
“I strongly believe that Nigeria will win between four to five gold medals with the calibre of players selected in the various categories.
“Last year, Nigeria hosted the UFAK West Region 2 Karate Championship in Abuja where the team placed second. We also participated in numerous championships which has helped to put us in shape.
Full list:
Women – Elizabeth Oghenevwogaga (Individual Kata), Godfirst Sampson (-55kg), Harriet Fongoh (-61kg), Rita Ogene (-68kg) and Chioma Ani (+68kg)
Men – Olorunseun Olorunbe (Individual/Team Kata), Taiwo Fagboro (Team Kata), Kehinde Fagboro (Team Kata), Saidu Ahmed (-60kg), Rustum Bernard (-67kg), Felix Abode (-75kg), Israel Jegede (-84kg), Hope Adele (-84kg) and Joseph Omu (Team Kumite).
Coaches – Dave Jegede, Kingsley Onuelu and Micklem Emechete-Attoh