Powell calls on Sports Minister, mourns with Atsu’s family
Former 100m world record holder, Asafa Powell, has promised to support the government to promote athletics in Ghana.
Interacting with Ghana’s Youth and Sports Minister on Tuesday, Mustapha Ussif, the Jamaican sprinter on Tuesday said, he was ready to share his experience with Ghanaian athletes and lead them to become great athletes.
“It is important to make sure young ones tap into our experience to become better athletes. Ghana has amazing talents that could become global icons,” he stated.
Welcoming Powell, the Minister hailed the athletes rich experience, which he believes when shared would have an impact on Ghana athletics.
“This is a big step for Ghana athletics and sports in general. We would make sure that we tap into your knowledge and experience to develop our sports and young athletes,” he stated.
He praised the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) upon whose invitation Powell came.
Asafa Powell arrived in the country on Monday for a working and familiarisation visit and scheduled to undertake several activities till his departure next week.
The international sprinter visited the late, Christian Atsu’s, family house in Accra on Wednesday to mourn with the family and sign the book of condolence.
Joined by his wife Alyshia Powell, the GOC President, Mr Ben Nunoo Mensah and other officials, the former athlete interacted with the family and promised his support towards the funeral.
Also present to sign the book of condolence were the former Minister for Youth and Sports, Elvis Afriyie Ankah.
The week observation for the deceased Ghanaian footballer will be held tomorrow at the Adjiringanor Astro-Turf in Accra.
Dignitaries, former players, well-wishers and sympathisers would be expected to throng the venue to mourn with the family and share memories of the distinguished former Ghanaian player, who was part of the over 44,000 people who died following the earthquake in Turkey
BY MICHAEL D. ABAYATEYE
