By Uzor Odigbo
Nigeria’s ex-athletes under the umbrella of Eyoto Academy Foundation, the organisers of the Championship has unveiled big plans for athletics development in Edo State.
Making this known during a chat with TheNiche is the President Eyoto Executive Council Mr. Felix Idahosa.
Mr. Idahosa said Eyoto is comprised of group of ex-athletes who came together to champion the give back system to the society through its yearly sponsorship of U-15 Athletics Championships in Edo State.
According to him, young and upcoming athletes have been enjoying Eyoto’s scholarships both home and abroad, Competitions and sponsorships which would be in its 4th edition December 7th -8th, 2003.
“We have many things to give back to society through our sponsorships. These Young ones need us to provide a ladder for them to climb to stardom, that’s why Eyoto made up of kind hearted professionals and individuals namely, Eyoto Sports Academy Executive Council. Felix Idahosa, President, Festus Idahosa Erese, Vice president, Friday Enoye, Treasurer and Sonny Okundolor, Secretary came together and decided to do this.
“We left school and retired from athletics several years ago, therefore this year’s championships will witness additional programme/events that would add to things we do,” he said.
Mr. Idohasa also said Special Sports like Deaf sports has been added to the number of events Eyoto is handling at competition and scholarship levels.
He said previously, the number of events are shared 10 for boys and 10 for girls, but this time around, some adjustments would be made to include Mix relay races.
“Over 40 schools took part in the 3rd edition, the 4th edition will be more as expectation is around 80 schools participating.
“We may in future take interest in football, but for now, grassroots athletics is it for us” Mr Idohasa said.
He stressed the need to discover these Young talents from schools at tender ages for them to practice sports longer and be able to enjoy the dividend of early sports life.
