The Visco Walking Club launched a ?T? Shirt in Cape Coast over the Weekend at Savoy Hotel as part of a Nationwide Tour to raise funds in support of walkers who are going to take part in this year?s World Walking Cup Slated for Naumburg Germany on 1st and 2nd May, 2004.
The ?T? Shirt bore the colours of Ghana in front. It has at its back, the names of individuals and co-operate bodies who have contributed to the development of walking in Ghana since 1985.
The ?T? Shirt was officially launched by Osabarima Nana Kwesi Atta II (Omanhen of Oguaa Traditional Area) and auctioned by Hon. Anasi Yarquah (Presiding Members of the Cape Coast Municipal Assembly). Later there was a float through the Principal Streets of Cape Coast and the ?T? Shirts was sold to the general public at a cost of
?30, 000.00.
In his speech, Osabarima Nana Kwesi Atta II told the Walkers to count on him for support. He also advised them to be discipline in all their endeavours.
The Regional Minister?s representative Mr. Richard Antwi-Boasiako on his part advised the walkers and other keep fit clubs present to desist from political activities within their clubs. He also highlighted on the benefits of the health Insurance scheme.
Hon. Anasi Yarquah said that the Cape Coast Municipal Assembly as has helped in the case of boxing is prepared to help in the development of walking.
Assistant Division Officer, Vincent Asuamang of the Ghana National Fire Service and also the Ace Walker explained on behalf of the walkers that in such competitions as the World Walking Cup, team work is what is mostly sought after and Ghana is expected to send five (5) walkers each for 20km and 50km respectively. And a least of three (3) walkers are expected to finish the race before Ghana could be ranked.
The team would have to spend at least Ten (10) Million Cedis on each walker. This shows clearly that more than a Hundred (100) million cedis is needed to sponsor the team to the World Cup. He also hinted that the head coach of the walkers, Dave McGovern is also selling some of the ?T? Shirts in U.S.A on his website A.D.O Asuamang said that individuals who would want to buy some of the ?T? Shirts can contact phone number 00233208167623 or E-mail: viscowalk@hotmail.com.
Later in an interview with Mr. Sammy Dekawski, owner of Savoy Hotel who sponsored the Launching programme with drinks, food and the use of his premises, said, this is not the beginning of his sponsorship for walking and sports in general in the Central Region. He further stated that his doors are always opened for the development of sports. The General Secretary of Ghana Athletics Association Mr. Ekow Wilson advised the club to consult and inform the Association of everything that it does.
Other invited Guests at function included Mr. Sam Akromah (Former Boxer), Mr. Twintoh Walker (Central Regional Chairman, Ghana Boxing Authority), Mr. Kweisie (Rhema Worship Centre), Division Officer F. Aidoo, Stadium Keep Fit Club, Gye Nyame Unity Keep Fit Clubs, King Aggrey Keep Fit Clubs, Paradise Keep Fit Clubs, Jackson Keep Fit Clubs.
The Visco Walking Club wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the following companies for helping in printing the ?T? Shirts. They include Energizer Batteries and Flashing lights, Voltic Ghana Limited, Elephant Ointment, Savoy Hotel, Central Regional Health Services, Biriwa Beach Hotel