The second edition of The Athletics Games (TASG), a burgeoning inter-school athletics competition, is poised to significantly expand its reach and impact, building upon the success of its inaugural event. Organized by Seun Akinbohun, a passionate advocate for youth athletics, TASG aims to provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and nurture their athletic potential. This year’s competition will feature a larger cohort of participants, encompassing 16 schools, evenly split between primary and secondary levels, a marked increase from the 11 schools that participated in the 2024 maiden edition. Driven by positive feedback and a desire to foster broader participation, Akinbohun envisions TASG as a key contributor to the development of young athletes in the region.
Akinbohun’s motivation for establishing TASG stems from a personal passion for sports and a perceived gap in opportunities for young athletes interested in track and field. Having witnessed a growing emphasis on swimming competitions in Lagos, she felt compelled to create an avenue for children to explore and excel in athletics. Inspired by her own childhood involvement in track and field, Akinbohun’s vision is to replicate those enriching experiences for her children and their peers. TASG represents a concrete manifestation of this vision, offering a structured and supportive environment for young athletes to hone their skills and compete against their contemporaries. The growth from 11 to 16 participating schools underscores the resonance of this initiative within the school community.
The success of the first edition of TASG has laid a solid foundation for future growth and expansion. Akinbohun emphasizes the invaluable learning experience gained from organizing the maiden event, highlighting the positive reception from schools, officials, and technical advisors. The visible enjoyment of the participating children, their pride in their achievements, and the lasting memories created further solidified her commitment to continuing and expanding the competition. These positive outcomes have fueled Akinbohun’s ambition to further develop TASG into a premier athletics event for young athletes.
TASG has garnered substantial support and recognition from prominent athletic bodies, further solidifying its credibility and potential. The competition has received endorsements from the Lagos State Athletics Association (LSAA), the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, and even World Athletics, demonstrating its alignment with established athletic standards and practices. This institutional backing not only lends legitimacy to the event but also opens doors for potential collaborations and resources that can contribute to its long-term sustainability and growth. The involvement of these organizations underscores the importance of providing quality athletic opportunities for young people.
Looking ahead, Akinbohun envisions an even more inclusive and accessible TASG. One of her key aspirations is to expand the competition to include public schools, bridging the gap between private and public education and fostering a more unified athletic community. This ambitious goal requires further development and strategic planning, including securing additional support from government entities and potential partners. The inclusion of public schools would significantly broaden the reach of TASG, ensuring that more children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to the benefits of competitive athletics.
Akinbohun recognizes the ongoing work required to realize the full potential of TASG. She acknowledges that the journey involves continuous improvement, strategic planning, and securing necessary resources. However, she remains committed to building on the success of the maiden edition and creating an even more impactful experience for young athletes in the years to come. The expansion of participating schools, the endorsements from respected athletic organizations, and the vision for greater inclusivity all point towards a bright future for TASG, positioning it as a cornerstone of youth athletic development in the region. Akinbohun’s unwavering passion and dedication, coupled with the growing support from the community, promise to elevate TASG to new heights, empowering young athletes to reach their full potential.
