Team Enugu contingents at the just concluded 7th edition of the Southeast Open Taekwondo Championship, has described the competition as timely and eventful, noting that the tournament avail the Coaches the opportunity to assess the mental state of their athletes.
The Contingents also expressed immense gratitude to the organizers of the tournament, straying that such kind of event will continually produce the next generations of athletes that will that the world by storm.
Speaking to newsmen shortly after the awards and prize presentations at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, Coach of Team Enugu, Musa Enakheme, hinted that the event was not just an eye opener for the athletes but to prepare them for the bigger challenge ahead, adding that they will improve on their deficiencies.
The Coach also lamented over the high level negligence and deplorable conditions the sport has experienced over the years, while calling on the authorities and the relevant stakeholders for more financial and moral support.
Also Speaking, Olympic Medalist, Chika Chukwumerije, who was making his return to the Taekwondo management scene after a four-year absence, was delight over the turn out, stated that the exposure and investing will definitely create an indelible experience for the athletes.
Meanwhile , over 70 athletes and coaches from Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu and host state, Imo, participated in the 3-day championship at the weekend, that witnessed some scintillating and amazing martial arts skills.
At the end of proceedings, Team,Imo emerged overall winner in the Championship, ,with a total of 41 medals consisting of 13 gold, 15 silver and 13 bronze medals, closed followed by Abia with 28 medals made up of 12 Gold, 11 Bronze and 5 Bronze medals.
Team Ebonyi placed third on the medal standing with 8 medals including 4 Gold, 3 Silver and 1 Bronze just as Enugu, finished last on 4 medals including 2 Gold, 1 SIlver and 1 bronze.
Next Regional competition is scheduled to hold 20 – 21 February in Umuahia, Abia state.
