Marie Olaleye, a Beninese athlete, has clinched the two gold medal in the 80+ women’s arm wrestling both left and right hand category at the ongoing All African Games. Born in Benin to a Nigerian father, Marie expressed her joy and determination in an interview with Sports 247.
“I put it in my mind that I want to win that gold medal and I am ready to go more than that and very far,” she said. Marie’s journey through the competition was smooth, with her describing it as a total walkover. She attributed her success to her rigorous preparation, especially after a loss in a combat game in Saudi Arabia. “I prepared myself for this competition because I lost in the combat game in Saudi so I prepared to win in this event. I don’t worry anymore,” she explained.
Marie, the current African champion in arm wrestling, also shared her approach to competitions. “For me, I don’t have a small or big competition. Every competition is an important one for me that is why I prepare myself for every competition very well. So I do not feel pressured in any way. I take my failures as strength to go far,” she stated.
Discussing her relationship with Nigeria, Marie revealed, “My Father is Nigerian, I was just born in Benin. And since I grew up in Benin, it is natural for me to represent the Country of my birth although I support both Countries.” She also expressed her willingness to represent Nigeria if called upon for a competition, provided there is no simultaneous competition for Benin.
Marie’s story is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the strong ties she maintains with her dual heritage.
Zidora Africa @Play from the 13th All African Games is brought to you by Zidora travels and tour.
