May 7, (THEWILL) – Nigerian wrestler, Mercy Genesis, has left for Istanbul, Turkey to participate in the World Olympic Qualifier with hopes of earning a spot at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The African and Commonwealth Games champion in the 50kg category, who narrowly missed out on qualification at the last African/Oceania Olympic Wrestling qualifiers in Alexandria, Egypt, would be hoping to become the latest Nigerian athlete to secure Olympic qualification in Istanbul, Turkey where the World Olympic Qualifiers will take place.
The multiple African champion, who was accompanied by coach Akuh Purity, will take to the mat on Friday, against high-profile wrestlers in the world who missed out in their regional windows.
The qualifier in Istanbul will offer 54 Olympic quotas in all six weight classes of the three styles. Every weight category offers three Paris Olympic spots – one each to the two finalists and one to the winner of the wrestle-off between the two bronze medalists.
Upon her departure, the President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Hon. Daniel Igali, in his remarks, expressed optimism about securing another Olympic ticket to make it 7 Olympic slots for the wrestling contingent to the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Sports Development wished Mercy the best of luck, adding that the Wrestling Federation has high hopes of successful Olympic qualifiers and an Olympic berth.
About the Author
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
