by Silas Boahene | Apr 29, 2024 | Africa, Athletics, Europe, International
The streets of Madrid witnessed an extraordinary display of athleticism as tens of thousands of runners gathered for the highly anticipated Madrid Marathon on Sunday, April 28th. Among the sea of participants, it was the Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes who stood out, showcasing their prowess in both the men’s and women’s races.
In the men’s competition, an Ethiopian runner surged ahead early in the 42-kilometer course, establishing a commanding lead. Despite facing formidable challenges in the form of heat stroke and a hamstring strain in the final 7 kilometers, he demonstrated remarkable resilience, ultimately clinching victory in what marked the second triumph of his career.
Mitku Tafa’s triumph was hard-earned and well-deserved, as he crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 2 hours, 8 minutes, and 58 seconds. Hot on his heels were fellow Ethiopians Fikre Bekele and Kenyan athlete Douglas Chebii, who secured second and third place respectively, in a testament to the fierce competition among the East African contenders.
Meanwhile, in the women’s race, the spotlight shone on Naom Jebet, the reigning champion of the 2023 Nairobi City Marathon. Jebet delivered a stellar performance, seizing her first international marathon victory on the streets of Madrid. With sheer determination and unwavering focus, she surged ahead in the final stretch, leaving her competitors trailing behind. Jebet crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 2 hours, 26 minutes, and 20 seconds, a remarkable 44 seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Bontu Bekele, who claimed the second spot.
Adding to the Ethiopian presence on the podium was Kebene Chala, who secured third place, further solidifying the dominance of East African runners in the prestigious event.
The Madrid Marathon not only showcased the incredible talent and resilience of these athletes but also served as a platform for unity and sportsmanship on an international stage. As the world watched in awe, the Kenyan and Ethiopian runners left an indelible mark on the streets of Madrid, inspiring countless individuals with their extraordinary feats of endurance and determination.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 29, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International
Legendary boxer Azumah Nelson is set to grace the ring once again, this time alongside his son, Dalvin, in a thrilling exhibition match against the European Union Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly. Scheduled for May 4 at the Bukom Boxing Arena, this event, titled “Diplo Rumble: Empowering Youth Through Sports,” promises an electrifying evening of boxing, marking a highlight of the EU Month celebrations in May.
At the launch event in Accra, Azumah Nelson expressed his excitement for the opportunity to showcase boxing talent and underscored the importance of discipline in the sport. His optimism for the bout against Ambassador Razaaly hinted at a decisive victory, encouraging fans to arrive early to witness the action.
Ambassador Razaaly, with his amateur boxing background from France, commended Ghana’s sportsmanship, especially in boxing, and looked forward to contributing to the development of Ghanaian youth through the exhibition match.
The event will feature an 11-fight card, including Dalvin Nelson’s debut alongside his father, as well as other thrilling matchups showcasing Ghanaian boxing talent. Ticket prices start at GHS5, with the fights kicking off at 5 pm, offering an evening of excitement for boxing enthusiasts and supporters of youth development alike.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 29, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Dreams FC, Ghana’s contender in the CAF Confederation Cup, faced a devastating setback as they bowed out of the competition in the semi-finals, succumbing to a 0-3 defeat against Egypt’s Zamalek SC at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Sunday, April 28.
Despite enjoying home advantage, Dreams FC couldn’t seize the opportunity and fell short against Zamalek SC. The Ghanaian side entered the match following a goalless draw in the first leg held in Egypt the previous Sunday.
Zamalek SC asserted dominance from the outset, securing a decisive advantage with two early goals in the first half. Hamza Mathlouthi found the net in the 12th minute, followed by Samson Akinyoola in the 27th minute. Despite goalkeeper Solomon Agbasi’s commendable efforts, Zamalek SC extended their lead with a third goal courtesy of Mostafa Shalaby in the 59th minute.
Dreams FC, though striving to stage a comeback, faced formidable resistance from Zamalek SC’s defense and faltered in converting opportunities into goals. Despite an improved performance in the second half, Dreams FC struggled to find the target, with numerous attempts either missing or sailing over the bar.
Adopting a cautious approach, Zamalek SC slowed down the tempo of the game as they aimed to protect their lead. Despite Dreams FC’s persistent efforts to narrow the gap, they failed to breach Zamalek SC’s defense, leading to their exit from the competition.
The defeat marks the conclusion of Dreams FC’s journey in the CAF Confederation Cup, while Zamalek SC advances to the tournament’s final stage.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 29, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Other Sports
Mustapha Ussif, Ghana’s Minister for Youth and Sports, has been honored with the prestigious title of African Sports Minister of the Year.
This recognition was bestowed upon him at the inaugural Africa Sports & Tourism Awards (ASTA), held in Abuja, Nigeria. It celebrated his remarkable leadership and relentless dedication to advancing the sports sector across the continent.
Themed “Sports as a Catalyst for Accelerated Tourism Development in Africa,” the ceremony brought together professionals from both the sporting and tourism industries to commend individuals and initiatives driving transformative change across Africa.
Supported by Project Fly With Us Africa, the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, and the African Tourism Board, ASTA marked a significant milestone in acknowledging the synergies between sports and tourism in Africa.
Organizers highlighted Ussif’s visionary leadership and commitment to uplifting Ghana’s sporting landscape, particularly his pivotal role in successfully hosting the 13th African Games in Ghana.
The award was accepted on behalf of Hon. Mustapha Ussif by a delegation led by Ambassador Inusah Zimblim, accompanied by Jamaludeen A. Abdullah, Executive Assistant to the Minister, Dinah Boateng, Director of Protocol of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Commodore Bassing, Security Advisor at the High Commission in Abuja.
In a gracious acceptance speech on behalf of the Minister, Mr. Jamaludeen expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing, “This award is a testament to the collective efforts of all those who have contributed to Ghana’s sporting success. It is a recognition of Ghana’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of sports.”
The event also recognized other notable figures, including Senator John Owan-Enoh, Minister of Sports Development of Nigeria, Governor of Lagos, H. E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Nigeria Football Federation President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusa, Founder of Heartland F.C, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and the Minister of Tourism of Nigeria, Lola Ade-John, among others.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 29, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Other Sports, Soccer
The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has sadly announced the demise of Mr. Joachim Awuley Lartey, affectionately known as ‘Joe Lartey,’ who served as the association’s inaugural President.
At the age of 96, Joe Lartey peacefully passed away on April 26, 2024.
Joe Lartey, a revered icon in Ghanaian sports journalism, played a pivotal role in the formation and early growth of SWAG. His contributions to sports writing, commentary, and journalism have left an indelible mark on the industry.
During this challenging period, SWAG has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Joe Lartey. Further details concerning his passing and funeral arrangements will be provided by SWAG in due course.
The legacy of Joe Lartey, as a trailblazing sports journalist and a key figure within SWAG, will be cherished and commemorated by the sports community in Ghana and beyond.
