Nigerian cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye had to compete using a borrowed bicycle from the German team in a surprising turn of events at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
This unusual situation arose due to a series of unforeseen circumstances, as clarified by Nigeria's Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh.
Ukpeseraye, who participated in the women's road race on August 4th, was called to compete in an additional event on short notice. Initially, Team Nigeria had only qualified for one road race and was fully prepared with the necessary equipment.
However, two weeks prior to the event, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) reallocated additional slots to Nigeria following the disqualification of another country. This unexpected opportunity required specialized equipment that Team Nigeria did not have on hand.
Senator Enoh explained, "For this track race reallocated to Team Nigeria, a very special equipment (approved specifically for the Olympic track game) is used.
It'll take months to have it delivered after ordering and making payment." Given the time constraints, the Nigerian federation, through Ukpeseraye’s club in Europe and a German-owned company, managed to secure a track bike for her.
The German cycling team's intervention was crucial, as Ukpeseraye herself noted on her official X account that she was almost at risk of not participating. The German team’s sportsmanship ensured she could compete, highlighting the spirit of cooperation between nations.
Reacting to the incident, CFN President Giadomenico Massari mentioned that the federation had to borrow a bicycle because they did not bring one to this year's Olympics.
Despite initial reports suggesting otherwise, Minister Enoh refuted claims that the federation failed to secure a bike, emphasizing their efforts to ensure Ukpeseraye could compete.
Comments