70 athletes depart for Melbourne

The first batch of 70 athletes and technical officials to the 18th Commonwealth Games left Lagos on Saturday for Melbourne aboard Emirate Air.

The Director of Sports in the Sport Ministry, Dr. Amos Adamu and the Nigeria Olympic Committee President, Alhaji Ahmed Gumel, was on standby to see them off.

NOC President who saw off the athletes in Abuja urged them to be good ambassadors of the country while at the Games. "You are individually and collectively Nigeria's Ambassadors while in Australia.,

"All that we expect from you are to comport yourselves very well. Do not do things that will tarnish the image of the country.

"Do not try to stay back in Australia after the Games. We have all that you want in this country. Do not engage in the consumption of performance-enhancing drugs.

Rely on your God given talents and you will win. You can do without drugs. Seeking short cuts can ruin you.

"We want you to go to Melbourne win Gold medals for the country. You have all trained well and you have been provided all that you require to perform well,'' he stated.

Three sports of the seven selected made the first trip. They are Athletics, Boxing and Basketball.

Dr Adamu who was on hand at the Muritala Mohammed Airport told newsmen that the team had been provided their allowances and kits that they would require to concentrate to perform well.

He said he came personally to ensure there was no hitch in their travel arrangements.
Team officials comprising the NOC, Ministry of Sports and the Nigerian Mission would receive the team on ground in Melbourne.