By Shabait,
President Isaias Afwerki today received and encouraged the Eritrean Olympian athletes who are to participate in Rio Olympics that is to be held from 5 – 21 August 2016.
Commending the athletes for the determination they demonstrated to reach to this level, President Isaias called on all athletes to enhance efforts to take the national sport to a higher level of excellence, besides winning medals.
Indicating that Eritrea possesses significant potential as regards sports which has not yet been harnessed effectively, the President underlined that much effort needs to be exerted to nurture outstanding and professionally trained athletes through introducing a system where all sport persons equally participate.
Ambassador Zemede Tekle, Commissioner of Culture and Sports on his part said the athletes are in good physical and psychological condition.
The Government of Eritrea has extended USD $100,000 to coaches and athletes of the national team for the achievement they have registered so far and to encourage them for further accomplishment.
Similarly, the athletes and coaches said that their meeting with President Isaias Afwerki shoulders them double responsibility and expressed readiness to make Eritrea’s day in the event.
In Rio Olympics, a total of 15 athletes, including one female athlete, would represent Eritrea in marathon, 10,000 meters and 5,000 meters races as well as in cycling.
Meanwhile, 18 year old Yemane Haileselassie displayed a stellar performance at the 2016 IAAF World U20 Championships 3000m Steeplechase and finished 2nd place.
On cycling, Yohana Dawit also wins the 120Km Rwanda Cycling Cup 2016 women’s race.
