New Parliament beat Bakano to emerged champions of the Tug of War Competition to commemorate this year's Edina Bakatue Festival in the Central Region.

The event which drew a large crowd was organized by Dreamland Sports Plus in collaboration with the Ghana Tug of War Association (GHATOWA) and the Elmina Traditional Authorities.

Mr. Emmanuel Olla Williams, President of GHATOWA said they are having fun and cultivating peaceful cohesion among communities through the festivals with exciting innovative sports events like Tug of War and Pillow Fighting.

He urged companies to come along in the development and promotion of peace and unity with entertainment and sports.

For the full results:

Bakano vrs Bua oho brigade

Bakano won 2:0

Kunkum vrs Morgan

Kunkum won 2:0

Island vrs New parliament

New parliament won 2 0

Happy fans vrs Chelsea

Chelsea won 2 0

Semi's

Kunkum vrs New parliament

New parliament won 2 0

Bakano vrs Chelsea

Bakano won 2 0

Finals

Bakano vrs New parliament

New parliament won 2 0.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Klaus Nonnemacher has congratulated practitioners of Kickboxing, MMA, Judo, Taekwondo and Karate Do for their dedication and commitment to the sports.

Speaking to Yours Truly at the Korean Sports Complex at Tema during the African Open Tournament, he commended Steavano Tuekpe the Ghana President of WKU and members of the Organising Committee.

He said Ghana has great potential in combat sports and the athletes must be supported.

He promised to establish relationships with the federations that are interested so that the athletes are supported and the disciplines made popular across the country.

He also promised to bring more activities and a World Championship to Ghana.

"I think Ghana has the potential to produce great champions and the young athletes need support" he said.

Ghana is hosting a two day African Open Tournament at the Korean Sports Complex from Friday July 14 to Saturday July 15.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

A Sports Expo will herald the 2023 Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon (AICHM), at the Media Center of the Accra Sports Stadium.

The expo would offer sponsors, corporate bodies, individuals and institutions the platform to exhibit their goods and services to the general public and participants who would visit the venue to pick their running vests and race numbers for the event.

At least 20 exhibitors are expected to participate in the Expo, that would last from August 2-3, 2023, at the Accra Sports Stadium at 8:00am to 5:00pm each day.

It would be a perfect platform to discover brands and services that are making waves in the sports, wellness, and fitness industries.

Exhibitors and participants would also have the opportunity to undertake health screening exercise to be provided by HealthTech Ghana Limited.

It would also offer an opportunity to network with industry experts, establish grassroots connections, and tap into the growing sports market.

The event is organized by the Medivents Consult – organisers of the Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon.

The Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon would start at the Accra Sports Stadium and finish at the Mantse Agbona, James Town, covering 5-Kilometres, 10-Kilometres and 21-kilometres.

It is in collaboration with the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and sponsored by HD Plus, Allied Consortiums, Serene Insurance, G4S, Aqua Blue Mineral Water, mybet.Africa.com, Rekfoli Herbals, Zimansky Hotel, TXT Ghana, and 442 Images.

Source Medivents

Nzubechi Grace Nwokocha of Team Nigeria celebrates winning the gold medal as they cross the finish line in the Women’s 4 x 100m Relay. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Chibuogwu Nnadiegbulam - AIPS Media

LAUSANNE, July 14, 2023 - Nigeria’s women’s 4x100m relay team at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games have been stripped of their gold medal following the disqualification of Nzubechi Grace Nwokocha who was found guilty of doping by the Commonwealth Games Federation Court. England have now been promoted to first place, followed by Jamaica and Australia.

Nwokocha had run the anchor leg as Nigeria crossed the finish line 0.21 seconds ahead of England in a thrilling race at Alexander Stadium on August 7, setting a new African record of 42.10s.

PROVISIONALLY SUSPENDED She was provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) the following month, for the use of banned anabolic steroids ostarine and ligandrol following a sample taken at Birmingham 2022. Ostarine and ligandrol are both non-Specified Substances, listed by name under section S1.2 (Other Anabolic Agents) in the WADA 2022 Prohibited List.

The Commonwealth Games Federation Court heard Nwokocha's case in May where her assertion that “a fellow member  of  the  Nigerian  team  had  drunk  from  her  bottle  of  Lucozade,  and  thereby caused the adverse analytical finding (AAF)” was rejected. The athlete’s lawyer explained: “she was probably the victim of a contamination of her drinks whilst in practice sessions on the track at the athletes’ village.”

DISQUALIFIED Birmingham 2022 announced on its website that the Federation Court issued a decision on  May 17, 2023,  that Nwokocha had committed the following Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) under the 2022 Commonwealth Games Anti-Doping Rules (ADRs): Presence of a Prohibited Substance or its Metabolites or Markers in the Athlete’s Sample, pursuant to Article 2.1 of the ADRs; and Use or Attempted Use by an Athlete of a Prohibited Substance or a Prohibited Method, pursuant to Article 2.2 of the ADRs.

The Federation Court disqualified her results from the women’s 100m, women’s 200m and the women’s 4x100m relay, with all resulting consequences, including forfeiture of any points and prizes.

“The matter has now been passed to the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) to determine any further consequences under their anti-doping rules,” Birmingham 2022 added.

AIPS

It was all fireworks at the Korean Sports Complex, Tema Community 3 on Friday where the 2023 African Open Tournament involving five disciplines started.

On day one, it was Karate, Judo and Taekwondo and the event was very exciting as players and officials had much to do.

President of World Kickboxing and Karate Union (WKU) Klaus Nonnemacher from Karlsruhe, Germany was present to grace the opening day.

National champion Edmund Amoako was there to display his Kata skills as well as other top karatekas.

For Judo, hardworking national coach Ezekiel Dodoo was able to furnish Yours Truly with the results after a thrilling and action packed experience.

In 60kg, the winners were 1st Abdullah Iddriss Sandor, 2nd Vincent Boating, 3rd Jones Months and 4th Abdul Rahman Dodoo.

Dominic Agudoo won the 66kg, followed by Frank Terkpor, Samuel Quarshie and Caleb Tetteh.

Lambert Fiazinku won the 73kg, followed by Nii Noi Nortey, Eugene Boateng Message and Samuel Tackie.

In the Men Open Dallas Awenyese won over Dominic Agudoo, Isaac Millions took the third position and Bobby Nubour placed fourth.

Evelyn Dzato won the Women Open gold medal, while Elizabeth Oduro won the silver.

The best judoka male went to Dallas Awenyese, while Evelyn Dzato took the best female prize. Promising star went to Isaac Williams.

The climax of the African Open Tournament is Saturday July 15 when Kickboxing and MMA will take center stage. There are title belts, medals and certificates at stake for the winners.

Itel Phones supported the event and has brand new phones for the best performers and most outstanding athletes.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

West Africa A (WAFU A) – Augustin Senghor - Senegal

North Africa (UNAF) – Abdulhakim Al Shalmani - Libya

West Africa B (WAFU B) – Colonel Gbezonde Kossi Akpovy - Togo

Central Africa (UNIFFAC) – Pieere Alain Mounguengui - Gabon

East Africa (CECAFA) – Dr. Mutasim Gafar Sirelkhatim -Sudan

Southern Zone (COSAFA) – Walter Nyamilandu Manda -Malawi

caf

Joliet, Illinois, is set to honor local athlete #1 ranked in USA, 19x National Champion, Joseph Awinongya Jr. with a proclamation for his outstanding athletic achievements and academic excellence. The Joliet Mayor's Office will recognize Joseph, fondly known as "Jojo," at a special ceremony scheduled for July 18th at 6 PM at Joliet City Hall. Jojo, along with several other promising young boxers like Curmel Moton, Marcus Luther, Seandel Diaz, Juan Rivera, Thomas Covington, Elijah Lugo, and Malachi Ross, is considered one of the top boxing prospects in the nation. In addition to this recognition, Jojo is also scheduled for a radio interview on V103 Radio on Monday, July 14th, at 9 AM on 102.7 FM.

A Rising Star in Boxing

Joseph Awinongya Jr., or Jojo, has been making waves in the boxing world with his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Hailing from Joliet, Illinois, Jojo has emerged as one of the most promising young boxers in the nation. His skill, discipline, and relentless work ethic have propelled him to the forefront of the boxing scene, catching the attention of boxing enthusiasts and professionals alike.

At such a young age, Jojo has already demonstrated immense potential. He has shown great technique, speed, and power in the ring, impressing fans and coaches with his performances. With each fight, Jojo has continued to grow and refine his skills, making him a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world.

Academic Excellence and St. Francis University Scholarship

In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Jojo has also excelled academically. He has proven that he is not only dedicated to his sport but also committed to his education. Jojo's hard work and academic achievements have not gone unnoticed. He has been awarded the prestigious Full-Ride Scholarship to St. Francis University in Joliet, Illinois.

The Full-Ride Scholarship is a testament to Jojo's academic prowess and his ability to balance his studies with his boxing career. It is a recognition of his dedication, discipline, and determination in both the classroom and the ring. The scholarship will provide Jojo with the opportunity to further his education while continuing to pursue his passion for boxing.

Proclamation from Joliet Mayor

The Joliet Mayor's Office, led by Mayor Terry D'Arcy, is set to honor Jojo for his remarkable achievements and contributions to the community. On July 18th at 6 PM, a special ceremony will be held at Joliet City Hall to present Jojo with a proclamation recognizing his accomplishments.

This proclamation serves as a testament to Jojo's hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. It highlights his exceptional athletic ability, academic achievements, and positive influence on the community. The Mayor and the City of Joliet are proud to celebrate Jojo's success and serve as a source of inspiration for other aspiring athletes and scholars in the area.

Joseph Awinongya Jr., or Jojo, has undoubtedly made a name for himself in both the boxing world and academic arena. His athletic achievements, academic excellence, and community involvement have earned him a well-deserved proclamation from the Joliet Mayor's Office. The ceremony on July 18th at 6 PM at Joliet City Hall will be a momentous occasion to honor Jojo's accomplishments and inspire others to strive for greatness. As Jojo continues his journey as a top boxing prospect and pursues his education at St. Francis University, his future looks incredibly promising, and his determination serves as a beacon of inspiration.

Source Team Awinongya

The MTN Ashantifest 2023 football matches continue to excite fans and produce memorable and amazing displays.

The action was in Zone 4 over the past weekend and on Friday, 7th July 2023 at the Atonsu Astro Turf it was just fantastic.

On Day one, in game one, Kwadaso won 6-1 over Adum.

Emmanuel Owusu Boakye 3×, Kwame Owusu, Fiazo, George Kwame Agyemang  and Andy Cole were the scorers.

In the second match, Santasi won 2-0 against Atonsu, with goals coming from Ballack and Charles Kamara Gyamfi

In the third game, Kwadaso beat Atonsu 2-1 where Emmanuel Owusu Boakye 2× and Richmond Antwi found the net.

On Saturday, 8th July 2023, in game 4, Santasi won 4-0 against Adum, and the scorers were Mahmud Issah, Enoch Morrison, Bernard Frimpong and Ronaldo.

In game five, Santasi beat Kwadaso 2-1 and the goals came from Alhassan Chibsah 2× and George Agyemang (pen).

In game six, Adum lost 2-7 to Atonsu. Nana Poku, Gaucho and Richmond Antwi 5×, and Christian Benteke got the goals

Table

Team               GP W D L GF GA  PTS GD

1. Santasi 3 3  0  0  8  1     9   +7
2. Kwadaso 3 2  1  0  9  4     6    +5
3. Atonsu 3 1  0  2  8  6     3    +2
4. Adum 3  0  0  3  3  17     0   -14

Overall top scorers

1. Richmond Antwi - 6 (Atonsu)
2. Emmanuel Owusu Boakye - 5 (Kwadaso)
3. Alhassan Chibsah - 2 (Santasi)
4. Tahiru Awudu - 2 (Ejisu)
5. Lizarazu - 2 (Dechemso)

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The FIFA Club Benefits Programme is set to award over $500,000 to five Ghanaian clubs as recognition for their players' participation in the Black Stars squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has received a sum of $565,772.42 from FIFA, which will be distributed among the beneficiary clubs.

Asante Kotoko, Hearts of Oak, King Faisal, Dreams Football Club, and Steadfast Football Club are the fortunate recipients of this programme.

Among them, Hearts of Oak received the highest amount of $219,008.70, while Kotoko was paid $200,757.97.

Steadfast received $109,504.72, whereas Dreams and King Faisal each received $18,250.72.

During the World Cup, Ghana's squad included two players from the Ghana Premier League: Danlad Ibrahim (representing Kotoko) and Daniel Afriyie-Barnieh (representing Hearts).

Additionally, King Faisal, Steadfast, and Dreams qualified for the rewards by having players who participated in the Black Stars' qualifying matches for the World Cup.

Under the Club Benefits Programme, each of the 837 footballers is eligible to receive a daily amount of $10,950, regardless of the minutes they played during the tournament.

Ghana remained in the competition until the end of the group phase.

The FIFA Club Benefits Programme is an initiative aimed at acknowledging the contribution of football clubs during the World Cup periods.

It provides financial rewards to clubs based on the proceeds generated from the tournament, with distribution facilitated through member associations to clubs that made their players available for their national teams.

This programme was first introduced ahead of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and will see a total of $209 million being distributed to clubs worldwide for their player contributions to the Qatar 2022 edition.

A similar amount was awarded following the 2018 World Cup in Russia, while the benefits for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil amounted to $70 million—an increase from the $40 million allocated for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Graphicsports

A 13 member committee to oversee the organization of the 2023 African Open Combat Sports Tournament at the Korea Sports Complex, Tema Community 3 on Friday July 14 and Saturday July 15 has been inaugurated and introduced at a short but impressive ceremony in Accra.

The committee comprises experts in the five disciplines: Taekwondo, Judo, Karate do, Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts.

Steavano Tuekpe is the Chairman / Main Organiser, with Sammy Heywood Okine as the Press / Media / Public Relations Officer.

Others are Maxwell Theodore Alornyo, Gideon Tetteh, Adnan Lamptey and Selorm Fayise from the Ghana Taekwondo Federation.

The rest are Mr. Abdul Razak aka ‘Commando' Vice President of the Ghana Kickboxing Association, Ezekiel Dodoo, Judo Coach, Derrick Macaire, MMA / Kickboxing Official, John Kennedy Koranteng Secretary General of the Ghana Judo / Karate Do Federations, Mrs Alexandria Tuekpe in charge of Protocol / Logistics, Jonathan Euro, MMA Fighter / Coach and President of the World Kickboxing and Karate Union (WKU), Mr. Klaus Nonnemacher.

German based Mr. Steavano Kojo Tuekpe, the IBCO K1 Champion who is in Ghana to promote and united practitioners in the Martial Arts and Combat Sports said it is a great opportunity to be back home to offer support for rising stars.

He stated that there are no cash prices for winners but they win get brand new phones, medals, equipment and exposure.

He appealed to the media to support the least financed sports and preached on the safety of sportsmen and women.

Mrs. Alexandria Tuekpe said she is championing the participation of more females in sports and urged more girls to take part in the African Open Tournament.

Nii Adote Dzata 1, Shipi of Sempe and Mankralo of Sakaman as well as former President of the Ghana Kickboxing Association who graced the occasion commended Steavano Tuekpe for remembering where he came from and supporting the grassroots.

Representatives of the various federations represented had a word of advise or encouragement to the organisers of event.

By Sammy Heywood Okine and Elizabeth Gyamfi