A powerlifter at the
ongoing Lagos State Sports Festival, ‘Ibile Games”, has urged organisations and philanthropists to sponsor competitions that would develop more talents at the grassroots.
Blessing Mark, who made the call won silver medal at the ongoing Games for the Lagos Island East Local Government Council Development Area.
Mark told newsmen that private participation in the sport would improve the discovery of fresh talents from across the country.
“Government cannot develop sports alone. We need private participation to provide a variety of competitions in a year for athletes to choose from,” Mark said
He said that government should devote more attention to lesser known sports rather than undue attention it currently gives to football.
Mark also urged his colleagues, the physically challenged to strive to make a living in any kind of sport since opportunities were being provided to para athletes.
“There are plenty opportunities for the physically challenged persons because every sport is now creating its para counterparts. Do not give up as the sky is now the limit,” he said
Mark suggested that sport-loving individuals could support them by offering them scholarships to study as well as take part in sports.