I used my own jersey for the competition’- Winnifred Ntumi

Ghana’s rising weightlifting star, Winnifred Ntumi, has revealed that she had to use her own jersey to compete for the nation at the Games.

Sharing her journey to success at the 2023 African Games, she revealed the challenges she faced despite clinching gold for her nation.

Ntumi made history as Ghana’s first gold medalist at the prestigious event, securing three medals overall in the (49kg snatch) and (Clean and Jerk) categories before claiming the coveted gold for her country.

However, behind her remarkable achievement lies a tale of adversity and perseverance.

Ntumi disclosed that she had to utilize her own jersey for the competition due to the inadequate equipment provided to her by management.

Expressing her disappointment with the preparation process, Ntumi highlighted issues with the timing and quality of the equipment supplied for the event.

She revealed receiving size 40 boots instead of the correct size 38 for weightlifting, illustrating the logistical challenges she encountered.

Despite these setbacks, Ntumi remained focused on her performance, channeling her energy into her training and competition.

Her dedication and determination ultimately paid off, culminating in her triumphant success on the podium.

In reflecting on her victory, Ntumi expressed a mix of emotions, from joy and satisfaction to a sense of speechlessness at her accomplishment.

Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, showcasing the resilience and determination required to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness on the international stage.

This is not the first time Ntumi has brought glory to Ghana in weightlifting.

In 2019, she secured three medals for her country at the games in Rabat, Morocco.

She has also earned bronze medals at various international competitions, including the African Championships in Cairo and the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Despite her successes, Ntumi has faced challenges, including the threat of quitting the sport if she cannot secure employment.

She emphasized the importance of the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Sports Authority (NSA) providing employment opportunities for athletes to ensure their continued participation in sports and to provide them with a sustainable source of income.

Ntumi’s remarkable achievements at the African Games highlight her dedication and talent, bringing pride and inspiration to her nation and fellow athletes.