By Victor Kanayo
Another Nigerian cyclist, Kurotimi Abaka, has blazed the trail to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
This is after a Nigerian cyclist and National Sports Festival Champion, Ese Ukpeseraye, had qualified for next year’s 33rd Olympic Games scheduled to hold in Paris, France.
Abaka, the latest athlete to attain qualification status, achieved it by winning a gold medal at the Class B tendam elite men’s category at just concluded the 19th African Road Cycling Championship in Ghana.
After his qualification, the 30-year-old has rallied Cycling Federation of Nigeria, (CFN) to raise the standard of the sport in the country.
He said: “Nigerian cyclists, over the years, are confronted with challenges of getting standard bicycles, regular competitions and good welfare packages, which are important for their development in the sport.
“Nigerian cyclists would appreciate the federation if it gives more attention to the development of the sport. Nigeria has talented cyclists, who, with adequate support, can be worthy ambassadors at international tournaments.”
12 cyclists, comprising 11 women and one man, represented Nigeria at the competition.
