Nigerian weightlifter Sarah Matthew has delivered probably the most inspiring tales of resilience on the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in Ahmedabad, India.
Regardless of a severe sickness that almost dominated her out, she received two gold medals and claimed the distinguished Finest Junior Athlete award.
Matthew revealed in a heartfelt Fb submit that she fell gravely unwell simply two weeks earlier than the competitors.
Her situation deteriorated days earlier than her scheduled occasion, leaving her unsure about even stepping on stage.
“Falling significantly sick, preventing for my life simply two weeks earlier than the competitors was robust. Once I thought I used to be recovering, it acquired worse,” she wrote.
The younger athlete admitted she had little confidence in her potential to compete.
“I didn’t even belief myself sufficient to carry out effectively as a result of I used to be not in good situation,” she added.
In opposition to these challenges, Matthew shocked herself and the weightlifting group. She clinched gold in each the junior and senior classes, proving her grit and dedication.
Much more remarkably, she was topped the Finest Junior Athlete of your complete championship.
“Although my efficiency was removed from my finest, I’m grateful it was adequate to win,” she stated, reflecting on the achievement.
Matthew devoted her success to the robust community of assist round her. She expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the Nationwide Sports activities Fee, Mallam Sheu Dikko, the Director-Normal and former Ogun State Sports activities Commissioner Bukola Olopade.
She additionally thanked Nigeria Weightlifting Federation President Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, the secretary, board members, and fellow athletes for standing by her.
Her particular gratitude went to the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje, the founding father of the Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Foundation, and her coach Aduche Ojadi, whom she described as pillars of encouragement all through her restoration.
“I might not have performed this alone. I’ll perpetually be grateful,” she concluded.
Sarah Matthew’s story serves as a reminder that true champions rise, not when all the things is ideal, however after they discover energy in adversity.
