Delta State para paddler, Alaba Metelewawon has emerged the overall champion of the just concluded 2021 Admiral Porbeni Boat Race held at the Jabi Lake in Abuja.
Metelewawon clinched gold six medals in the male 200m para K1 final, 200m K2 para mixed double heat final, male para 500m K1 finals amongst other events.
In the same vein, Ayomide Bello won four gold medals at the event.
She won her first gold in women race 1 C1 500m, first position and received N100,000 prize.
Bello won her second gold in 500M C1, her third gold in 200M C2 mixed double and the fourth gold in 500M C2 mixed double.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Youth and sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, has hailed the Nigeria Canoe, Rowing and Sailing Federation led by Admiral Porbeni for sustained efforts at developing the sport and promoting the wellbeing of athletes.
“Let me sincerely commend the efforts of Admiral Porbeni for the sustainability of this yearly race in the last couple of years.
“His efforts have not only improved our ratings as the number one country in Africa, it has ensured that we qualified for the Olympics and Paralympics in Para-Canoeing and Para Rowing.
“I congratulate you and the athletes and urge you to use this event as a springboard for the other qualifiers. Be rest assured of the ministry’s commitment and support to actualise the dreams of our athletes to win laurels for our fatherland.
“Since sports development cannot take place without competition, no athletes can excel without proper motivation and welfare. You cannot let your sails down or allow your boat of success drift away,” he said.
