Lagos – Onyeka Azika, a 53kg Commonwealth weightlifting silver medalist on Thursday vowed to surpass her record at the forthcoming All Africa Games (AAG).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 11th All Africa Games is scheduled to hold in Congo Brazzaville from Sept. 4 to Sept. 19.
Azika to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on telephone that she was training hard along other lifters at the Abuja national camp ahead of the games.
“We are all working towards making the nation proud but I personally have a target of winning gold medal this time because I want to improve on my record.
“This has compelled me to be more serious with the trainings as I believe that it was only through hard work and prayers that I can be successful,’’ she said.
Azika boasted that she would not be intimidated by other competitors.
According to her, the experience she got at the last commonwealth games would come in handy at AAG.
“This is another opportunity for me to bring my experience and skill to bear and make my country proud. I am also familiar with the rules and modern equipment.
“However now that we are in camp, we are privileged to be under the supervision of seasoned technical officials.
“ In fairness they are really putting us to good shape for the competition,’’ she added.
The weightlifter commended the National Sports Commission for making adequate arrangement for the athletes’ early camping.
Azika said that the early camping would provide the contingents adequate time for the athletes prepare build up as team spirit. (NAN)