Team Nasarawa strives for first medal as NYG 2024 enters final stretch

From Abel Leonard, Lafia

As the 8th National Under-15 Youth Games (NYG) approaches its final stages, Team Nasarawa’s hunt for its first medal is still ongoing after a series of mixed results across several events. Day 7 concluded without the much-anticipated breakthrough, as the state’s quest for glory was once again postponed.

The competitions, held across various venues in Asaba, have seen intense moments, with Team Nasarawa putting up commendable performances. However, the results on Sunday did not favor the state, with some setbacks affecting their medal prospects.

Boxing Setback

Team Nasarawa’s boxing hopes took a hit when their medal hopeful, Yusuf Abdullahi, was forced to withdraw from his bout due to injury. The young boxer woke up on Sunday with a painful condition that ruled him out of his scheduled fight, much to the disappointment of the team.

In a conversation with NBS-Sport, Coach Nnamdi Osuji explained the difficult decision not to risk Abdullahi’s health. “It would be disastrous to risk such a young boy in this condition. “I won’t do that, not at all”. We accept this in good faith and pray that Yusuf can return to the ring as early as possible,” Osuji remarked.

He assured the public that all necessary medical attention is being provided to ensure the young athlete’s swift recovery. “We’ll give him the best treatment to see him recover early,” he added.

Taekwondo Close Call

In Taekwondo, Nasarawa’s Emmanuel Okpo fought valiantly but ultimately fell short of the podium after losing his third match to Bayelsa. The scores of 11-7 and 7-4 at the Stephen Keshi Stadium’s indoor hall were a testament to his effort.

Coach Lois, while disappointed, expressed pride in her team’s performance. “We had a good outing, and although we didn’t make it to the podium, we made our mark. Nobody thought we could come this far, defeating the likes of Kaduna and Imo, but we did,” she said. Reflecting on the future, she added, “We will go back home, train more, and plan for a better outing next time.”

Tough Start in Darts

In the darts competition, Coach Audrey Alu’s team had a tough start. Danladi Patricia, competing in the girls’ 501 singles category, lost 2-0 to Bayelsa. The coach remains hopeful as Team Nasarawa continues to compete in the 501 doubles event today, with a chance to bounce back and leave a mark in the tournament.

Golf Bright Spot

Amid the challenges, a ray of hope shines through for Nasarawa in golf. Young golfer Friday Godwin delivered a spectacular performance, defeating his opponent from Borno to advance to the final, scheduled for Monday at the Ibori Golf and Country Club.

Coach Obile Felicia expressed confidence in Godwin’s potential to bring home the state’s first medal. “We are optimistic about going home with either gold or at least silver for our teeming fans,” she said, elated by the team’s progress.

Mixed Results in Hockey

Team Nasarawa’s hockey teams had a bittersweet outing on Sunday. The women’s team faced elimination after a 2-0 loss to Osun, while the men’s team advanced to the semifinals, keeping their medal hopes alive.

As the 2024 National Youth Games nears its conclusion, The Sun  gathered that Delta, Edo, and Oyo continue to dominate the medal table, with Delta sitting at the top with 35 gold medals, followed by Edo with 23, and Oyo with 10. A total of 60 gold, 58 silver, and 81 bronze medals have been awarded so far.

Also, Team Nasarawa remains determined as the final events unfold. Despite the challenges and mixed results, the athletes are giving their all, with the hope that the final days will bring home the much-needed medals for the state. All eyes will be on Monday’s events, particularly in Hockey and Golf where Nasarawa’s brightest chance for a medal shines.