By Akeem Lawal
2019 African Games gold medalist, Oyesade Olatoye is unhappy for not being part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics scheduled to officially start on Friday, Sportsbiz247.blogspot.com reports.
Olatoye, who was one of Nigeria’s top performers at the 12th African Games in Morocco, Rabat 2019 where she won two medals, a gold in the Shot Put and bronze in the Hammer Throw, shared her experience during the past year on her Instagram handle.
The 2019 Ohio State University Female Athlete of the Year and also a nominee for the 2020 NCAA Woman of the Year Award is however hoping to bounce back better.
“It’s taken me a few weeks to gather my thoughts about this past season. Being 100% transparent, track and field is not always glitz and glamour… especially when the outcome does not match your expectations. Competing as a collegiate athlete for the last 6 years has taught me so much about perseverance, dedication, sacrifice and the will to never give up.
“This past year was tough. Battling back from an unexpected injury, led to me have ankle surgery before the season started. It wasn’t until 4-5 months post op that I was able to get back into sports specific activity. It was difficult, but I wanted to be able to compete in my last season as an Ohio State Buckeye. Between regaining the strength that I lost over quarantine, PT and entering a masters program, these all took a toll on my physical and mental health. But I kept faith and didn’t lose sight of my goals.
“After leaving NCAAs unsatisfied with my performance, I kept my head up and went to Nigerian national trials and various other meets to try and get my Olympic qualification; however, I fell short. Truthfully, it’s been hard coming to terms with the reality of not qualifying for Tokyo. I’ve been in a clouded mental space, and my heart is heavy as I am continuously reminded of my shortcomings when I think about the Tokyo Games. I am disappointed I could not complete this season at the highest level that I know that I’m capable of, but that is life.
“To OSU: Being a Buckeye has shown me so much love and memories that I will hold for a lifetime. There have been so many amazing moments along the way. I cannot begin to even think about the unmeasurable support that I’ve had. Thank you to @ashleykovacsusa for believing in me when I didn’t, and for making me the woman I am today on and off the field. Thank you for all who have participated and seen me throughout this journey. Although my career as an Ohio State athlete may be over, I’m so excited for what’s to come.
“But for now, I choose to reset, refocus, and get better. My story is still being written, I still trust the process….all in Gods timing. Btw Paris is only three years away….I’m going to show you how great I am.”
No comments:
Post a Comment