August 8, 2016 By: Sahr Morris Jr. in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Minister of Sports, Ahmed Khanou, has issued encouraging words and eased the pressure on Sierra Leonean athletes ahead of their respective events in the just commenced Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
The Sports Minister, who together with other officials is presently in Rio gracing the Games, cheered up the athletes with words of encourgament: “We are all in Rio not only to compete but to learn and represent the country to the best of our ability.”
Sierra Leone is still searching for its first Olympic Games medal since 1968 when the country made its debut in the Mexico games, and with some expectation from Sierra Leonean fans, Minister Khanou said Sierra Leone’s participation in the Rio Games was not all about winning medal or medals but giving the athletes a huge opportunity to learn from experienced and world class athletes.
He said: “I always believe, in sports, those who fail to participate are always the losers, for as long as you are able to compete you stand a chance of winning a medal, and I believe our athletes are in high spirit and are here to compete, learn and participate within the frame work of the International Olympic Committee.
“Olympic is not just about jumping, running and playing, it is about the ideals of Olympism, it is about celebrating humanity, our athletes’ participation is giving the young people the opportunity of carrying the responsibility of rebuilding the country.”
Four athletes, United States of America-based sprinter Hafsatu Kamara, young sprinter Ishmeal Dudu Kamara, swimming duo Bunturabie Jalloh and Osman Kamara will all compete in the track and pool respectively.