Ruth Inyang, the newly topped Nationwide Sports activities Competition weightlifting champion, has shared how frustration led her to the game that has now introduced her nationwide fame and medals.
In an unique chat with SportsRation’s Nsikakabasi Akpan on the Civic Centre, Ikenne, the Rivers State athlete opened up about her inspiring journey after receiving two gold medals and one silver in weightlifting on Thursday.
“That is my third Nationwide Sports activities Competition,” Ruth mentioned with a proud smile. “I gained one silver and two bronze medals for Akwa Ibom at my first look. In 2022, I competed for Nasarawa State and gained one silver medal. Now, within the twenty second version, I’ve gained two golds and one silver for Rivers State.”
When requested about the important thing values which have helped her develop within the sport, Ruth listed: “Laborious work, coaching, dedication and self-discipline.”
She went on to elucidate how her journey into weightlifting started, not with ardour, however with disappointment.
“Frustration pushed me into weightlifting,” she mentioned. “I used to be a sprinter earlier than. There was a Youth Video games competitors developing and I wanted cash, so I noticed a possibility to do weightlifting. I skilled for one month, however sadly, I wasn’t chosen for the Youth Video games.”
Ruth credit Coach Andrew Ekanem for serving to her uncover her love for the game.
“He noticed potential in me and inspired me to maintain going. In 2019, he requested me to coach for a championship. That was the start, and now right here we’re.”
Now a nationwide champion, Ruth has set her sights on worldwide competitors.
“My subsequent goal is to attend the Commonwealth Video games and signify Nigeria. I’ve to step up, work more durable, and keep targeted.”
A local of Akwa Ibom State, Ruth additionally shared her need to sooner or later return and signify her house state.
“Sure, I’d love to return to Akwa Ibom as a result of it’s house,” she mentioned. “However I’d additionally like to be handled properly, like a daughter.”
Along with her medals shining brightly and her targets set even larger, Ruth Inyang’s story is a reminder that generally, frustration can result in greatness.
