GOC expresses disappointment as athletes fail to qualify for 2024 Paris games

Ben Nunoo Mensah, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), has voiced his disappointment over the failure of Ghanaian athletes to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Despite the setback, he affirmed the GOC's commitment to supporting athletes through their respective federations during preparations for the Olympics and other qualifying events.

The federations are tasked with sending athletes to qualifiers and competitions, with the GOC providing support throughout these preparations. Once athletes qualify, the GOC facilitates their participation in international tournaments.

The GOC has consistently sought scholarships and sponsorships for Ghanaian athletes, aiming to enhance their performance and qualification prospects for the games.

On 'Total Sports Review' on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mensah revealed that eight Ghanaian athletes are currently on GOC scholarships.

"All federations receive sponsorship from the GOC. We do our utmost to support them during preparations for tournaments and games. This year, we've invested over $55,000 in boxing alone, sponsoring athletes to attend qualifiers and secure their spots at the games," he stated.

"However, to date, no federation has qualified or presented any athlete for the Olympics, which is deeply troubling. Despite our success at the All African Games, where we won numerous medals, not a single athlete has managed to qualify for the Olympic Games."

Mensah acknowledged that some athletes have qualified through 'wild cards'—a system where athletes are selected based on performance when additional slots are available. Ghana has previously benefited from wild cards, particularly in swimming and weightlifting.

While uncertain about the weightlifters' chances this year, he remains hopeful that Ghanaian swimmers might secure wild card entries.

He also expressed optimism about the boxers' prospects, noting their recent participation in a challenging competition in Senegal and upcoming events in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 20.

"Our boxers are our current hope for qualification. With many of the world's top boxers already qualified, the competition in Bangkok may offer us a better chance. We are hopeful for three slots for our male boxers at the Paris Games," he said.

Mensah also expressed concern over the failure of both male and female teams to qualify for the Olympics, despite significant support from the GOC. He highlighted the need for greater investment in sports, akin to practices in other countries, to overcome these challenges.