Sixteen-year-old Confidence Akhigbe from Edo State was among the young athletes invited to the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, even though she did not compete in this year’s events. Speaking to Sports247, Akhigbe said the experience has inspired her to train harder for the next festival.
“It’s only at the youth games I competed. I am not competing at the Sports Festival, so I am not winning any medals.”
But simply being part of the festival has left a deep impression on the aspiring darter. “Many people did not make it here.
For me, being here means that next time I should train so I can play at the National Festival.”
Living alongside athletes from across the country has shown her the level she must reach. “I’ve met people from other states in the hostel.
I should train more because the people who are here are strong, so I can compete with them on the same level.”
With her eyes set on future games, Confidence Akigbe plans to return better prepared and ready to win a spot on Edo State’s team.
