The Malabo Sports Complex was buzzing with energy and laughter on Sunday as Bioko Sport, in partnership with the French Embassy in Malabo, hosted a commemorative sports day celebrating the first anniversary of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Over 160 children participated, many affiliated with national sports federations. The event offered young participants the opportunity to try new disciplines in an environment of learning, exchange, and fun.
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The program opened with remarks from Paulina Oliveira Borupú, President of Bioko Sport, followed by representatives of the French Embassy. The official opening was led by Sesé Sité, Director General of Youth, alongside Salvador Nchuchuma Ndong Esomoyo, the Regional Sports Inspector for the island.
Children rotated through activities including karate, kickboxing, kung fu, aerobics, Akong, boxing, basketball, football, volleyball, badminton, taekwondo, and handball, as well as adaptive sports for children with disabilities. Each session lasted approximately 15 minutes under the guidance of professional coaches and instructors.
One of the most memorable moments was a basketball game featuring athletes with disabilities, followed by a tricycle race and a football match between a team of hearing-impaired players and the French School of Malabo, which ended 2-2 in regulation time and was decided in a penalty shootout in favor of the school. The event also included contests, games, and prizes, highlighting the role of sports as a tool for inclusion, social engagement, and youth development.