Nigeria swimmers in confident mood

Team Nigeria Swimmers and officials last week departed the shores of the country for the pre-Olympics training tour in Germany. The Swimmers are expected to move from Germany to Athens for the Olympics, which begin in August.

Media Officer of the Nigeria Swimming Federation Bassey Koma Ekpo who saw the swimmers off at the airport disclosed that the team is comprised of 8th All Africa Games bronze medallist and Afro-Asian Games Gold Medals winner, Obia Inyengiyikabo and national record holder in the 50 meters backstroke (men), Eric Williams.

Accompanying Officials include National Coach Philip Demehin and Secretary-General Tayo Oreweme. The First Vice President Musa Aboh is expected to join the team this week.

Speaking before departure, both swimmers expressed their appreciation for the opportunity given them to be at the Olympics and assured they will make the country proud.

“It’s a great honour for us to be given the opportunity to take part at the Olympics. I am confident that the Olympics atmosphere will inspire us to improve on our previous performances. We will strive to do the country proud,” said Obia.

Obia and Eric were the only swimmers who won medals for Nigeria at the 7th African Swimming Championships/Olympic Qualifiers held last May in Morocco.

While Obia, popularly nicknamed “The Fish” won a silver medal in the 50 meters backstroke event with a time of 31.13 seconds, Eric Williams got a bronze medal in 50 meters breaststroke, after returning a time of 30.30seconds .He had earlier made 30.17 in the heat.

At the Athens Olympics, Obia, who won 9 gold medals at the 3rd Rivers State Governors Cup Swimming Championships, tagged Odili 2003, is expected to take part in 50 meters freestyle, 100 and 50 meters backstroke, respectively.

Williams is however expected to participate in the 100 and 50meters breaststroke.

 

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