Blind Judokas in Lagos: Champions of Resilience and Community
A remarkable group of athletes is transforming the perception of possibility. The blind judokas from Lagos have discovered empowerment, camaraderie, and purpose through the disciplines of judo and Sambo. Their inspiring narratives illuminate the frequently underestimated capabilities of visually impaired individuals in both sports and society as a whole.
The Journey Begins at Rowe Park
Amidst energetic shouts of direction from Coach Gbenga Montana, our correspondent observed training sessions unfolding at a modest dojo located within Rowe Park in Yaba, Lagos State on September 26, 2024. This groundbreaking session involved two blind athletes—Samuel Kekere and Temitope Orimolade—who were preparing for their historic participation in the World Sambo Championship to be held in Kazakhstan.
A Unique Space for Training
The dojo resembles standard classrooms typical of public schools but includes a dedicated area for storing equipment. Covered with tatami mats indicative of professional training environments, it serves as an arena where these athletes refine their skills.
Kekere and Orimolade’s movements on the mat reflect years of disciplined training coupled with an indomitable spirit. These blind judokas not only confront physical restrictions but also challenge prevailing societal attitudes towards disability in athletic pursuits.
Global Context: Addressing Blindness
Approximately 43 million individuals globally live with blindness, facing substantial barriers across education, employment opportunities, and recreational activities—especially pronounced in developing nations like Nigeria. Although engaging in sports is crucial for fostering confidence among people with disabilities, combat sports are rarely prioritized due to perceived injury risks compared to safer options such as athletics or swimming.
Trailblazing Athletes Leading by Example
An exemplary figure is Adekunle Adesoji who achieved gold medals competing in sprints at the 2004 Summer Games held in Athens. Moreover, Muyiwa Fatogun—the founder of the Nigerian Blind Sports Association—made significant strides by reaching the finals for his category during the African Games hosted in Algiers back in 2007.
Navigating Personal ChallengesSamuels’ Story: Overcoming Obstacles
Kekere—a determined orange belt representing Lagos State—began his journey into combat sports four years ago after losing his sight due to glaucoma diagnosed during secondary school days.
“I believed my life had come to an end,” Kekere expressed when reflecting upon his diagnosis. “I couldn’t comprehend how one could thrive without sight.”
This dark period led him through desperate circumstances involving harmful medication before igniting hope through Mr. Kelvin Arepita’s introduction to a specialized school offering resources tailored for visually impaired students—a vital turning point that unlocked opportunities he had once thought inaccessible.
Having since graduated from universities focused on Special Education/CRS programs gives him pride beyond measure—confirming that challenges can lead to unexpected paths towards success while participating actively within para-sports recognition under classification T11 signifying complete blindnessconfidence.
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Orimolade’s Struggles Reinforced by Family Support
Tellingly parallel yet distinct is Orimolade’s experience; this yellow belt judoka faced gradual vision loss beginning years earlier while at Federal College confronted health assessments revealing retinal implications resulted ultimately resolved fully blind condition around late twenty-teens caused wearisome periods questioning life’s value rooted deep fear eventual acceptance eluded him initially until reassurance found among family relationships surrounding presence built established personal strength resources cultivating footing opportunity generation./P>.
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Challenging Perspectives: The Journey of Athletes with Disabilities in Nigeria
Despite societal perceptions often casting a shadow over individuals with disabilities, there are segments of the community that offer support and recognition. Nevertheless, some persist in their negative attitudes, which can impact job opportunities and acceptance within social circles. Salami highlights this discrepancy: “There are numerous individuals who remain unemployed due to ingrained stereotypes questioning our capabilities,” he states.
Stigmas Surrounding Relationships and Education
The challenge extends beyond employment; it influences personal relationships as well. Individuals who might be interested in marrying someone with a disability could face discouragement from family members or society at large. “There are instances where parents resist having their children attend the same schools as those with disabilities,” Salami notes.
These experiences reflect widespread attitudes toward disability in Nigeria. Research published in the African Journal of Disability illustrates that cultural beliefs intertwined with ignorance contribute to these negative outlooks on disabled individuals.
Advocating for Inclusivity
Dr. Gift Omodiale (OD, MNOA), an optometrist and entrepreneur, attests that no person should discriminate against visually impaired athletes—whether they excel in sports or not—instead encouraging a culture of support and consideration towards them.
“To create an inclusive environment,” she emphasizes, “it is vital for society to prioritize assistance for visually impaired individuals.”
Transformative Power of Sports
Judo and Sambo have transcended mere athletic pursuits for many blind athletes; these sports have become essential lifelines enhancing their quality of life. Kekere articulates this transformation succinctly, stating: “Engaging in sports has significantly improved my life; it’s not just about competition but also personal growth.”
Having previously won gold and bronze medals at the Para Games representing Lagos State in 200m sprints, Kekere transitioned into Judo and Sambo—”Sports have propelled us forward especially as we gear up for upcoming Sambo competitions,” he shares enthusiastically.
Ogungbemi recounts her introduction to Judo through her friend’s encouragement to train at Rowe Park under coach Montana’s guidance: ”Training has been enjoyable—it has brought me immense joy,” she affirms.
Sheriff Hammed’s passionate involvement as Chairman of Lagos State Judo Association underscores his commitment to supporting blind combat athletes. According to Hammed, “The level of dedication from these exceptional athletes is nothing short of inspiring.” He points out how rare it is across Africa for blind participants to engage competitively in disciplines like Judo or Karate.
“It’s incredibly moving witnessing them compete,” adds Hammed, advocating for greater recognition due not only to their physical abilities but also because they exemplify how disabilities do not determine one’s potential.
Drumming Support from the Top
Orimolade praises Hammed’s efforts regarding athlete welfare: “His presence during training sessions encourages us greatly; he often accompanies us after practice.”
Combat sports play a transformative role on multiple levels—the benefits can be quite significant when one considers alternative activities like chess or Sudoku commonly associated with blindness compared to tactile sports such as Judo that emphasize touch sensitivity and spatial awareness training—a critical element enabling independent living capabilities among visually impaired practitioners.
Research highlighted by journals indicates increased coordination through practices such as Judo can vastly improve balance control among those grappling with visual impairments (Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness).
Dr. Ghenorhe Ehimen (OD,MNOA) further advocates for active participation by highlighting how sporting activities build muscle strength while fine-tuning essential motor skills—facilitating competitive avenues like the Paralympics provides aspiring visually impaired athletes opportunities beyond national borders promoting international success stories alongside rehabilitation options paving pathways towards thriving lifestyles irrespective disability labels imposed upon them throughout everyday existence.
“Examples abound—think about Im Dong-Yhun—the South Korean archer who clinched Olympic gold despite limitations caused by legal blindness.” This proves resilient determination empowers dreams fulfillment amid adversity amidst open acknowledgment paved primarily via organizations amplifying awareness around inclusivity accomplishments made effectively possible along various sporting fronts globally along socioeconomic chains sustaining many aspirations collectively shared within different communities worldwide including Nigerians striving posthumously strife encountered traditionally entrenched ideas cultivated historically rooted systemic hindrances acting deceptively counterintuitive progress made outwardly apparent simply identifying broadening horizons envisioned thereby uplifting others collectively while bringing forth newfound hope emerging triumphantly amidst expectations otherwise dashed away previously thwarted notions unjustly plaguing marginalized populations indefinitely relegated deprived rightful attention deserve esteem socially conscientious matters improving integration priorities based unconditionally reinforcing community amenities bridging gaps separating divisiveness perceived vision removing barriers experiencing genuine unity formed perseverance overcoming sadness courageously facing uncertainties prevailing challenges concurrently usher transformative era undoubtedly present phenomenal histories remaining scripted onwards inadvertently rewriting standards shaping destiny ahead even independently living enriched dignified outcomes achievable collectively navigating lives together undeterred ultimately soaring unwavering heights again reflecting continual pursuit greatness manifest faith empowering pioneering endeavors buttressing solidarity prioritizing welfare expands far extending lives extraordinary things happen perfectly attainable reasons alone merit encourage continuously building progressively partnered affiliations uplifting progressive causes exemplify belongingness camaraderie foresight harness dedicated energies globally focusing collaboration achieving holistic empowerment rendering participation worthwhile experiences immensely producing magnanimous returns constantly nourishing communal spirit regardless embracing resilience defined boundaries currently obstructive rather limitations merely self-imposed forces experienced enviably intangible channels impossible circumvent obtaining new perspectives elevate statuses mentored diligently attending commitments resolutely devoted prevailing circumstances triggering emotional reclaim victory triumph exuding self-belief setting historic milestones taking leads where deserved obscured none witness fate conferable anticipated keen envisioned optimism found everywhere examined richly thought out nonetheless meticulously followed emphatically distant tasks emerge infinite decisions perhaps journey outset dizzy undertakings confront ordinary adventures awaiting eclectic resonance welcoming solace proving integral traits flourish endlessly encapsulated myriad techniques pivotal features gracious fateful encounters repaying fervently lived memories surging confidently thereby attaining seamless variations surely establish contemporary futures promising advancement sure expand infinitely forward eternity forestalls uninhibited transitions arising ventures nestled eternally upon trial assure perpetual reflections empower equally messages motivate instigate active footsteps rising splendid aspirations rejoice nurture uncommon prosperity!
Pioneering Changes: Inclusion at World Level
The upcoming 2024 World Sambo Championship soon integrates blind competitors marking another watershed moment reshaping ideals prevalent so long evidenced underpinning underway evolving realms progressively dispelling restrictive airs exclusionary implemented affirmatively galvanizing enthusiasm broadly cultivating necessary actions imbued poignant character aligned integrity meaningful frameworks surpass entrench traditional enabling gifted vitality evolving perceptibly teamwork symbiotically aligned inspirations fueling commonly risen fronts newly detailed grounds validating collective emphatic pursuit exemptions evoking elation newfound vigor driven resolve unequivocally chart unseen paths perseveringly carve futureistically altering trajectories forevermore boosting undeniable engagement propelling steadily henceforward truly establish enduring legacies centered core purposes ascertain cornerstone advancing righteousness layered ambitions seeking solidifying roles respective entities contributing enabling environments devoid antiquated misconceptions carried unavoidable trails thoroughly amenable conclusions tie shared dialogues beautifully born coexistences!“`html
Advancements in Sports for Athletes with Disabilities: A New Beginning
Khalid Hammed, who serves as Vice President and General Secretary of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, views recent developments as a transformative chance to uplift athletes facing disabilities. “This initiative will have a significant impact. It provides hope and shows them that despite challenges, they possess the potential to improve their lives and achieve personal pride,” stated Hammed.
“Currently, we are self-funding our efforts. We are actively pursuing partnerships with both governmental bodies and private enterprises to expand support for more athletes,” he added.
A Milestone in Blind Sambo Participation
On October 2nd, Roman Novikov, Chairman of the FIAS Commission dedicated to Athletes with Disabilities confirmed wrestler Kekere’s entry in the upcoming championship. In his communication with Hammed, Novikov remarked, “Your athlete aligns with the international classification standards for blind participants in class SVI-1. You are authorized to register him for competition at the World Sambo Championship specific to blind sambos.”
This pivotal incorporation of “SAMBO for the Blind” into World Championship events is evidence of increased acknowledgment toward visually impaired competitors within combat sports. Vasily Shestakov, President of the International Sambo Federation expressed: “Athletes facing health challenges show remarkable determination in competing alongside their peers while displaying resilience and grit.”
The Significance of Eye Health Awareness
Dr. Omodiale emphasizes that various factors such as genetics, trauma or aging can lead to vision impairment or blindness: “Some individuals are born blind while others may gradually lose sight due to evolving conditions.” He highlights that numerous instances could be avoided or mitigated through routine eye examinations coupled with timely diagnosis and treatment interventions.
Regular eye assessments;Protective measures against injuries;Managing ailments like diabetes; A healthy lifestyle; Avoidance of smoking;
According to Dr. Ehimen’s analysis based on 2021 statistics published by the International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), around 295 million people globally live with severe visual impairment—of which 77% could have evaded this fate if adequate ocular care had been provided.
The Risks Associated With Improper Treatment Practices
“Dangerous remedies including couching methods or using harmful substances like battery acid can severely exacerbate symptoms leading to significant ocular damage,” warns Dr. Ehimen. He encourages anyone experiencing symptoms such as blurry vision or discomfort not only seek help but consult certified eye care professionals without delay.
Recognizing Global Eye Health Initiatives
The observance of World Sight Day on October 10 was marked by various initiatives aimed at promoting eye health awareness nationwide. Dr. Omodiale reported that several vision centers offered complimentary screenings throughout this week across Nigeria.
// Personal Stories from Athletes
Kekere and Orimolade: Journeys Beyond Adversity
Kekere enjoys family life alongside his wife Rachel and their seven-month-old son Dominion—all blessed with good eyesight.) In contrast, Orimolade faced a different pathway post-blindness after separating from his first wife but shares parenthood responsibilities regarding Oluwatobi from that union who resides now under his sister’s care in Ondo State; whereas he has formed another family unit with Yetunde resulting in their son Oluwatosin!
A Unique Challenge Yet Inspiring Narrative
Ironic it is how these remarkable blind athletes defy stereotypes yet cannot directly read commendations bestowed on them through printed publications—nevertheless they can leverage technology offered via The PUNCH’s website enabling audio functionalities granting access into written words reflecting their stories! Such narratives continue igniting inspiration whilst challenging societal conventions towards fostering an inclusive landscape across sports disciplines—and beyond!
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The post From Darkness to Triumph: How Blind Judokas Transformed Their Lives Through Sports After Suicide Attempts first appeared on News Sports.
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Author : News-Sports
Publish date : 2024-10-16 14:22:50
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