Federation hopeful of more slots in 2016 Olympics

The Nigeria Rowing, Canoeing and Sailing Federation (NRCSF) on Saturday expressed optimism that more of it athletes would qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics Games in Brazil.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Chierika Ukogo and Jonathan Akinyemi had already qualified for rowing and canoeing event, respectively, at the Olympics.

Bunmi Oluode, Secretary of the federation, told NAN in Lagos that the two slots were positive developments for the country.

Oluode said that the athletes’ qualification would motivate other athletes to qualify for the games.

“We are hopeful of getting more slots in the 2016 Olympics Games to increase our participation.

“Some of our athletes are undergoing training to feature in a qualifying competition coming up in March, 2015.

“They are all happy that we have two slots and it will definitely encourage them to perform creditably and qualify as well,” she said.

The secretary reiterated the federation’s commitment to enhancing the growth of the sport in the country.

NAN reports that Akinyemi was the first Nigerian athlete to participate in the Olympics, having competed at the London 2012 Games.

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