Three National Service Associations to socialize through Fun Games this weekend

Three National Service Personnel Associations have set Saturday, April 27, 2024 to engage in Fun Games at the Yikrosec Sports Complex.

In the heart of Yilo Krobo, Asuogyaman, and Lower Manya, excitement fills the air as personnels gear up for an unforgettable NASPA Inter District Fun Games.

From thrilling football matches to intense card playing, the strategic maneuvers of table tennis to the traditional allure of Oware, the Games which is generously sponsored by the Asuogyaman MP, Asuogyaman District Assembly, Agyebeck Investment Ltd from Akosombo and the luxurious Sweet Green Hotel in Senchi, promises to showcase the talent, camaraderie and sportsmanship that define our beloved districts.

Whether it's the competitive spirit of relay races or the laughter of sack races and lime and spoon, there's going to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Beyond the competition, the event also represents a deeper celebration of unity, diversity and community pride. It is a time for neighbors from Asuogyaman, Lower Manya and Yilo Krobo to come together, share in laughter and friendly rivalry as well as forging bonds that transcend their district lines.

As the sun rises on Saturday, April 27, 2024, the spirit of Asuogyaman, Lower Manya and Yilo Krobo personnel comes alive with anticipation of the diverse array of activities from 9am, embarking on a journey of athleticism, friendship and shared memories.

Story by: Felicia A. Yeboah

(PRO, Asuogyaman NASPA)

Their first time abroad, their first international friendly game, their first victory. In the last week, Black Star Polo– the team founded by American coach Asante Sefa-Boakye to promote the development of waterpolo in Ghana – has reached new heights by flying to South Africa and participating in a series of training sessions and friendly games in Durban.

Sefa-Boakye and his collaborators brought with them the kids who were unable to participate in the HaBaWaBa International Festival last summer due to bureaucratic obstacles related to granting entry visas to Italy, together with other older players.

 “Waterpolo was part of a larger initiative regarding water safety promoted by the Prince Charleen of Monaco Foundation and local clubs such asSiyasindisa Academy. In addition to training, kids took part in some clinics on water safety livesaving”, Sefa-Boakye tells Waterpolo Development. In order to travel to South Africa, he changed the destination of tickets Black Star Polo did not use last year to come to Italy. “The boys traveled abroad for the first time in their lives and they did it to play waterpolo. This trip let them rediscover their enthusiasm after last year’s disappointment, when they were unable to participate in the HaBaWaBa International Festival”.

The moment of greatest enthusiasm is obviously linked to waterpolo… In the swimming pool of the Durban High School a Black Star Polo team formed by 9 little waterpolo players between the ages of 13 and 10 faced in a friendly game boys slightly older of the Elite Waterpolo Academy team, gaining a stunning 6-5 victory: in their own small way, kids of Black Star Polo achieved a historic result, obtaining the first success of Ghanaian waterpolo in an international match, even if it was unofficial. “It was extraordinary, for Black Star Polo this is a very important goal. Before the game the coach of the opposing team, the South African international Dylan Cronje, had asked his players to take it easy on us, but at the end of the first quarter he changed his mind: ‘Wait a minute… you guys are good!’, he said. Our kids were very happy even if they didn’t cheer for long outside the pool: the temperature in South Africa is decidedly lower than in Ghana and they weren’t used to that kind of cold”.

The older Black Star Polo players then played another mixed team friendly game against Siyasindisa Academy, who won 7-4. “Everyone we met in South Africa was extraordinary – Sefa-Boakye commented -. As for us, the whole experience was very important for Black Star Polo and Ghanaian waterpolo, which once again showed its potential. We are rebuilding confidence after the disappointment of missing the trip to Italy last year and South Africa was motivating”.

Next goal of Black Star Polo is the HaBaWaBa International Festival: the Ghanaian team is registered for the U12 tournament in Lignano Sabbiadoro, but its participation is linked to the players obtaining entry visas and raising enough funds in order to fly to Italy. Sefa-Boakye is looking for sponsors, but anyone can contribute via the Black Star Polo page on the GoFundMe platform.

Source wpdworld.com

Serene Insurance Ghana Limited, a leading and the fastest growing insurance company in Ghana, has renewed its commitment with the annual Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon, fixed for August 3, 2024.

The third edition of the Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon would witness the finest athletes across Ghana and Africa as they compete for more than GHC 50,000 in cash prizes.

Serene Insurance would provide insurance coverage for all participants in the race, running vest for over 500 athletes, and an undisclosed cash package.

Mr. Henri Senyo Penni, General Manager of Medivents Consult, organisers of the event expressed their appreciation to the company for their support, adding that it would motivate athletes to put up their best performance.

He thanked Serene Insurance Company for their continuous support for the marathon, which is part of celebrations to mark this year's Homowo festival.

Mr. Senyo Penni noted that this year’s race would see a massive improvement in terms of the safety and security of athletes.

Mr. Penni disclosed the formal launch of this year's Marathon would be held in May to herald the commencement of activities leading to the climax.

Nana Yaw Owusu Dwomoh – General Manager in charge of Business Development and Marketing said his outfit was committed to the annual race hence the need to renew the relationship.

He noted that they were looking forward to a great event this year, as the annual marathon features in their annual activities.

The 2024 Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon would begin at the Accra Sports Stadium through some principal streets and end at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

Source Willie Ezah

… Paul Amoah And Azamati lead Ghana quartet to World Relays, Bahamas 2024

President of Ghana Athletics, Mr. Bawa Fuseini is very optimistic that Ghana’s 4x100 meters team will qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

He said all the potential athletes who can qualify are training very intensively for other qualifying meets to make it to the Olympic Games.

Speaking to Theo Sampah on GTV Sports programme, The Page, he assures Ghanaians that certainly some athletes will fly the flag of Ghana in Paris come July and August.

The 2023 African Games 200m gold medalist and 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medalist Joseph Paul Amoah and national100m record holder, Benjamin Azamati, will lead Ghana's quest for Olympic qualification at the World Relays slated for the Bahamas on May 4-5, where 14 of the 16 relay places in Paris will be determined.

They will be complemented by the 13^th African Games 200m finalist Ibrahim Fuseini, West Texas A&M's Isaac Botsio, and Edwin Gadayi, member of the silver medal winning quartet in in Accra.

With 93 days to begin the Olympic Games, no Ghanaian athlete has yet confirmed qualification to the Paris 2024 event, however Mr. Fuseini is very sure they will make it.

Ghana's men's 4x100m relay team represents the country's brightest chance of qualifying for the multi-sport event..

Team Ghana will have two opportunities to book an Olympic ticket in the Bahamas.

On the first day, the top two teams in each heat will advance to the final, which will take place on Day 2. Making the final will also secure their qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. So Team Ghana will qualify for the Olympic Games if they make the final.

If they fail to make the final on Day 1, they will have another opportunity on Day 2 when all the teams who do not make the final, will compete in the additional round where the top two teams in each of the 3 heats will also qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The remaining two places will then be determined using the ranking system during the period up to June 30, 2024.

Joe Paul and Benjamin Azamati were part of Ghana's 4x100m relay team who made it to the final at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

According to Mr. Fuseini, high jumpers Rose Amoanimaa Yeboah and Cadman Evans Yamoah who won gold at the 13^th African Games could also make it to the Paris Games if they are able to improve upon their points and performance at certified athletics meets.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The name Joseph ‘JoJo’ Awinongya Jr. is now a special name and personality to many young people, and even the elderly and the honourables as well as distinguished love the rising super star in Chicago, the Unites States of America.

After winning the Chicago Golden Gloves, he has become the idol and inspiration to many kids and the youth.

They follow him, they want to see him and they want to hear from him. Most take pictures with him and love his autograph.

Incidentally Jojo who has Ghanaian parents is also born to give motivational speeches. He is blessed with sense of humour and gift of strength in fields that he operates, mostly outside the ring. He is a giver and admirable.

At school, he is a genius as everyone loves him. In his community, he is the Super Hero.

The young boxer wrote his name in boxing history on April, 13, 2024 by fortifying the championship title at the Chicago Golden Gloves 2024 tournament in the 165 lb. Junior Open division.

‘JoJo’ as he is now affectionately called delivered a masterful performance, earning a unanimous decision against his formidable adversary, Yandel Hernandez from Knuckleheads Boxing Gym.

The electrifying showdown unfolded at Cicero Stadium, where JoJo's unwavering resolve and technical finesse captivated the audience. Some dignitaries who watched the bout were Father Michael Pfleger, former Secretary of State Jesse White, Wasfi Tolaymat, Michael Mikuska, Tyrone Muhammad with ECCSC, and Dr. Cornel Darden Jr. Their presence added an extra layer of motivation and camaraderie to JoJo's journey to victory.

Joseph Awinongya Jr. representing Sam Colonna Boxing Gym has dedicated countless hours to honing his craft under the guidance of seasoned trainers. His relentless pursuit of excellence culminated in this remarkable achievement.

"Joseph's dedication and heart have been evident throughout his journey," remarked Coach Sam Colonna. "His unwavering commitment to the sport has paid off, and we couldn't be prouder."

The Chicago Golden Gloves has a storied legacy, and JoJo's name now graces the annals alongside other legendary champions. His victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring boxers, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance.

The Chicago Golden Gloves was founded in 1923 and still remains one of the most prestigious amateur boxing tournaments in the United States of America. It has launched the careers of numerous professional boxers and continues to thrive.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

…Ghana Para Athletes to compete at 2024 Marrakech WPA Grand Prix Tournament in Morocco

A five-member para-athletics team has left Ghana for Morocco's 2024 Marrakech World Para Athletics (WPA) Grand Prix competition set for April 22-28, 2024.  is.

The competition which is a qualification event for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games would allow the classification of the first Ghanaian Para Athlete in shot put and standing javelin, Edmund Govina among others.

Other team members who have already been classified include 21-year-old Amos Ahiagah, a right-arm amputee who will compete in the 100-meter, 200-meter, 400-meter, and men's long jump events.  

19-year-old Diana Kuubetegr, also an arm amputee, will compete in the women's 800-meter and 1,500-meter events.

Zinabu Issah, an experienced para-athlete, will also compete in the women's sitting shot put, discus throw, and javelin events.

Mr Foster Kwarteng, Chairman of the Ghana Para Athletics Association, called on corporate bodies to support the Samson Deen-led Ghana Paralympic Committee to enable many more heroes yet to gain classification to attend other Paris 2024 Paralympic Games qualification events coming up in Japan, Switzerland, and France respectively.

With the support of NPC Ghana, Ghana's Dr Abena Tannor, a WPA international classifier, is currently in Morocco as one of the elected officials worldwide.

The African Paralympic Committee: AfPC Paris 2024 Qualification Grant sponsored the team and ten other selected athletes in Africa, a program to sponsor para-athletes across the African Region.  

Mr. Samson Deen, President of the National Paralympic Committee Ghana and African Paralympic Committee, has received support and encouragement from from the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the National Sports Authority to promote para-sports in Ghana through its 2020-2027 strategic plan.

The NPC introduced the para athletes at the first Extraordinary General Assembly held last Saturday.

From Sammy Heywood Okine

Dreams FC who are representing Ghana in the CAF Confederation Cup representatives have announced a free gate policy for their game against Zamalek on Sunday 4pm in the reverse fixture of the semifinal.

This is a bid fill the Baba Yara Sports Stadium with fans for the crucial game that they need to win at all cost and progress to the final of the competition on their first attempt.

Dreams FC released a statement on Tuesday afternoon announcing the policy to open free gate to fans for the game.

The first leg in Cairo last Sunday ended in a goalless draw, but Coach Karim Zito says he will change the game plan to ensure a sound victory.

“The management of Dreams Football Club has accepted a recommendation to make access to majority portions of the stadium for its return leg CAF Confederation Cup semi-final clash against Zamalek free of charge.

“Consequently, the popular and centre line stands of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium for the game on Sunday, April 28, 2024, will be free.

“Tickets for the VIP and VVIP stands shall however be sold for ghc 20 and ghc 50 respectively to satisfy security and safety requirements.

“We therefore urge all football enthusiasts in Ghana to gather in large numbers at the baba yara sports stadium to support the team as they strive to achieve a historic qualification for the grand finale of the continental competition.

The management of Dreams will soon announce several other measures to ensure the successful hosting of the game.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Dr. Emmanuel Owusu-Ansah, has sadly kicked the bucket. His untimely demise happened on Monday April 22 at the University of Ghana Medical Center after a brief spell with illness, and was announced on Tuesday April 23, 2024 by the President of Ghana Armwrestling, Charles Osei Asibey who is also General Secretary of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG).

He was the Chief Coordinating Officer- (COO) of Accra 2023 13th African Games which was successfully held in Ghana. The former Chief Executive of the National Sports Authority was a top Sports Administrator and Coach. He served as special technical adviser at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. His inter personal relations was super.

He led Ghana National Sports Delegations to over 50 (fifty) countries across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and North America and lectured sports-related programs in those countries,

He also served as the Director of Sports Directorate of the University of Ghana, Legon (UG) and former part-time Lecturer of the Department of Physical Education and Sports Studies, School of Education and Leadership (SEL), UG.

Dr. Owusu Ansah was encyclopedia of sports, who wrote many proposals, reports and books not only on sports but life.

May his soul rest in peace.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Former President of the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF), Mr. George Lamptey was on appointment for the international Boxing Association (IBA) as an International Technical Officer (ITO) at the recent international tournament in South Africa.

The prestigious Nelson Mandela Boxing Tournament which attracted African countries took place in Durban.

He was surprised Ghana’s Black Bombers could not take part as the prize money of $ 5000 for gold, $ 3000 for Silver and $1,500 for bronze winners was cool and good.

“I am very sad that my country, Ghana could not take part, because they are preparing for the World Olympic Qualifier, but they could gain a lot here” he told Yours Truly.

He observed that Ghanaian boxers are not exposed so they often lose some matches which they can win easily.

He called for more financial support for the Black Bombers, Black Rockets and Black Hitters.

The inaugural Mandela African Boxing Cup took place from 15-21 April at the International Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa

By Sammy Heywood Okine