Team Ondo has concluded its participation in the just-concluded 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games, in 19th position.

The team won two gold, six silver, and 16 bronze medals, a total of 24, at events held at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The two gold medals came from a traditional game, Abula Mixed Doubles, and from Damilola Ojo, who clinched the second gold in the Women’s Freestyle Wrestling (76kg category).

The remaining silver and bronze medals were won in Wrestling, Judo, Gymnastics, Boxing, Table Tennis, Para Table Tennis, and other events.

Team Ondo’s current position on the medals table represents a sharp decline compared to its performance in previous editions of the games.

At the 21st edition of the national fiesta held in Delta State in 2022, Ondo State finished in 13th place, winning six gold, 17 silver, and 32 bronze medals, a total of 55.

The performance was slightly better at the 20th edition held in Edo State, where Team Ondo finished 11th with 10 gold, nine silver, and 25 bronze medals, totalling 44.

The General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council, Mr Fagite, in a chat with Sporting Hope, thanked God for the safe return of the contingent after spending 14 days at the games.

 He acknowledged that the result was not what was expected, but emphasised the need to come together and devise strategies to improve on all fronts.

Fagite stressed that early preparation and an improved welfare package for athletes and officials ahead of the next edition, scheduled to be held in Enugu State, would help restore the state’s pride of place in Nigerian sports.

“We thank our Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his support.

“He was with us at the games to motivate the athletes.

“We also appreciate him for the ongoing renovation of the Akure Township Stadium.

“Work is progressing rapidly, and once completed, all sports lovers in the state and beyond will feel the positive impact on our performance,” he said.