Armwrestling: Over 300 pullers battle for 2027 African Games slots

Fierce competition for slots for the 2027 Africa Games continues today at the Borteyman Sports facility in Accra where over 300 athletes from 21 countries have converged to compete in the 15th Africa Armwrestling Championship.  

The championship started yesterday with thrilling performances. The fireworks will continue today which happens to be the final day with eyes fixed on medals and ranking points to secure continental glory, and most importantly, a qualification to the 2027 African Games. 

It has attracted tough competitors from traditional powerhouses such as Egypt, Mali, Nigeria, South Africa and host nation, Ghana.

They are known for their long-standing dominance in the sport, and are expected to provide stiff competition for the Ghana national Armwrestling team, The Golden Arms. 

Also expected to stage a strong contest are the new forces in the Armwrestling arena. 

Benin, Mauritius, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, Kenya, Eswatini, Burundi, Niger, Senegal, Cote D’viore and Togo are all in town, ready to combat the ‘big guns’ despite their underdog status.

The arrival of South Africa and Benin in particular, adds a fresh competitive edge to the southern and West Africa representation of the tournament. 

This edition is under the theme: ‘Pulling Africa Together,’ emphasising the role of sports in fostering regional integration and unity among member states. 

Speaking ahead of the competition, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chairperson, Maame Efua Houadjeto, explained that the event provides a platform to bridge cultural gaps and strengthen the bond between African nations through fair play. 

Maame Efua, who doubles as Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), also indicated the readiness of the LOC and the country to stage a very impressive championship.

“We are fully prepared to host a world-class championship that reflects the hospitality of Ghana. By bringing the continent to Accra, including our brothers and sisters from Egypt, Nigeria, and the rising stars from Benin and Mauritius, we have demonstrated that Africa is stronger when we lock hands.”

She continued that: “The theme: ‘Pulling Africa Together’ is a call for continental development and peace. We are ready to show that Ghana remains the heartbeat of African sports and the best in hospitality.” 

Contributing, Mr Charles Osei Asibey, the President of Ghana and Africa Armwrestling, commended various partners, especially the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, Ghana Olympic Committee, National Sports Authority, National Petroleum Authority, National Health Insurance Authority, Bethel Logistics, Verna Water, Kofikrom Pharmacy Limited, Stanbic Bank, Kofata Motors, Royal Dach Pharmacy, IMAH Hospital, Event Factory, Awards Center, Accra Metropolitan Assembly and the Ghana Tourism Authority for the unflinching support for the championship. 

On his part, Mr Kenneth Odeng Adade, the Chief Operations Officer for the championship, indicated that Borteyman complex has been fitted with international-standard Armwrestling tables and electronic systems to ensure a seamless experience..  

As the competition officially ends today, the ‘Golden Arms’ of Ghana will be looking to leverage home-court advantage against the technical prowess of the Egyptians and the raw power of the Nigerians.