Nigeria’s legend and Former African Champion, Funke Oshonaike has revealed that it was a mixed feeling for her when she lost out in the quarter finals of the ongoing National sports festival to 19year old Nimota Aregbesola of Lagos state.
The six time Olympian represented Akwa Ibom state at the festival alongside fellow legend Segun Toriola but was unable to deliver the gold medal as promised as she was bundled out by Nimota who eventually won a bronze medal in the women’s single events.
Nimota Aregbesola representing Oyo state after her shock win couldn’t hide her joy at beating an African table tennis legend. ““I could not believe it that I can stand Funke Oshonaike based on her huge exposure and wealth of experience. It is really a marvelous achievement”.
Oshonaike while speaking to sports247.ng noted that as much as she felt bad for not fulfilling her promises to her state, also said she’s happy for Nimota as she has been able to help in motivating her. “My initial hope was to win the gold medal for my state so I honestly feel sad for not doing that. But I have to say it is a thing of joy when you have inspired so many athletes with your performance over the years. The feeling is just good and I hope to keep inspiring them for some more years”
Aregbesola went on to win the bronze medal in the Women’s singles event while Ajoke Ojumu who was also inspired by the heroics of Ohonaike claimed the gold medal.
