by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 28, 2024 | Boxing, Ghana, International, Other Sports
Ghanaian boxer Elvis Ahorgah, popularly known as “Soldier Boxer,” has been granted a major opportunity to compete for the Commonwealth Silver Super Middleweight Title against undefeated British boxer Mark Jeffers (18-0). The bout is set to take place at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, UK, on December 14, 2024.
Ahorgah, 23, who boasts a professional record of 13 wins and 2 losses, has risen to prominence through his stellar performances in Ghana’s Professional Boxing League. Although his journey to becoming a national champion was interrupted due to controversial circumstances during the Ayitey Powers Promotion, his potential remains undeniable.
This opportunity, orchestrated by UK-based boxing consultant and promoter Azumah Cofie, represents a chance to elevate Ghana’s position in the Commonwealth boxing rankings. Many experts believe this fight is crucial for Ahorgah, who must showcase his skill, strength, and resilience to claim victory.
His opponent, 26-year-old Mark Jeffers, is a rising star in British boxing who is eager to challenge fighters from diverse backgrounds, including Africa.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 26, 2024 | International, Nigeria, Other Sports
Gloria Samuel, who lost to her 13-year-old teammate Goodnews Aina in the finals of the Girls U-16 event at last month’s NNPC-SNEPCo Junior Championship in Warri, is determined to regain her crown at the SAPETRO Futures event, which kicks off today in Lagos.
Samuel, a dominant force in junior tennis with victories in three championships before Warri, was left heartbroken after Aina, motivated by her mother’s challenge, delivered a remarkable performance to clinch her first junior title.
In the Boys’ categories, fierce competition is also expected. Goodluck Tersoo from Benue, who shocked Lagos-based Sanni Yahaha in their last encounter, seeks to prove his previous victory was no fluke in the Boys U-14 and U-16 divisions. Meanwhile, Gbolahan Olawale of Ondo State, a Youth Games tennis champion, looks to redeem himself in the Boys U-16s after losing to Abuja-based Dubem Amasiani in the SNEPCo Championship final.
The weeklong SAPETRO Futures tournament will conclude with an exciting finale at the Ikoyi Club on Saturday, November 30.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 26, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Other Sports
The 2024 President’s Cup, Ghana’s flagship rugby league event, thrilled fans at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium on Sunday, November 24, 2024.
The tournament showcased exceptional talent from players representing the Greater Accra, Central, and Ashanti Regions, solidifying the sport’s growing presence in the country. This year’s edition honored Mrs. Juliana Storey, the first female president of the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG), for her transformative leadership in the sport’s development.
A Growing Legacy of Competition
Since its inception in 2021, the President’s Cup has evolved into a vibrant competition featuring men’s, women’s, and boys’ divisions. The 2024 edition brought together over 100 players from schools, communities, and junior leagues, emphasizing the RLFG’s commitment to grassroots development.
U19 Boys: Dominance by the National Team
The U19 Boys’ National Team showcased their prowess with a commanding 26-6 win over the President’s Team, featuring players from Awutu Winton SHS, Pentecost SHS, Aduman SHS, St. Michael SHS, and Akrofrom JHS. The National Team surged ahead with a 16-0 halftime lead and maintained control despite the President’s Team’s spirited second-half efforts.
Women’s Division: National Team Extends Reign
The National Team in the women’s division secured a 22-12 victory over their counterparts. Despite a competitive second half that ended 12-12, the National Team’s early dominance ensured their continued winning streak.
Men’s Division: President’s Team Shocks National Team
The day’s most thrilling match saw the President’s Team hand the National Team their first loss in three years, edging them out 20-18. A late try by Jonathan Adotey and a clutch conversion by Darryl Amoatey sealed the dramatic win.
Celebrating Progress and Innovation
The 2024 President’s Cup underscored the RLFG’s dedication to innovation and inclusivity, introducing fans to the esports version of rugby league. Keith McMahon, Deputy UK High Commissioner, commended the Federation’s efforts to nurture talent and expand the sport’s reach.
As the tournament concluded, the President’s Cup 2024 stood as a beacon of rugby league’s growth in Ghana. Under Mrs. Juliana Storey’s visionary leadership, the sport continues to inspire players and fans, setting a bright course for the future.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 26, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International, Other Sports
Abigail Kwartekaa Quartey has made history as Ghana’s first-ever female world boxing champion after defeating the UK’s Sangeeta Birdie at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on Sunday, November 24, 2024.
Quartey displayed remarkable skill and resilience throughout the bout, securing a unanimous decision victory to claim the IBF Super Bantamweight title. Judges scored the fight 98-91 in her favor, showcasing her dominance over her opponent.
This historic win boosts Abigail’s professional record to 9 victories in 10 fights, with 6 wins by knockout and a single loss. She is currently ranked number one in Ghana and 50th globally out of 170 competitors in her division
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 26, 2024 | Ghana, Other Sports
Dr. Austin Luguterah, Head of the University of Ghana Sports Directorate, has expressed optimism about the potential of sports and education in Ghana, particularly among the youth. Speaking at the 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Right To Dream Academy, he commended the institution for its exceptional work in developing talent, producing international stars like Mohammed Kudus (West Ham United), Ernest Nuamah (Olympique Lyon), and Ibrahim Osman (Feyenoord).
Dr. Luguterah urged stakeholders to adopt similar models to empower young talents, emphasizing the transformative power of sports in society. “Modern sports has evolved beyond the pitches; it is now a tool to influence society positively,” he stated.
The event also featured Alex Asiedu, CEO of Right To Dream Academy Ghana, as a keynote speaker.
