Inter-CDEJ competition: athletics in the spotlight in Kévé
The Kévé high school grounds hosted an inter-CDEJ (Child and Youth Development Centers) competition organized by the Avé Cluster, highlighting athletics, on September 11, 2024. This day brought together the 12 CDEJs of the Avé Cluster around several disciplines: sprint races (100m, 200m, 400m, 1500m, 2000m), shot put, javelin throw, long jump and high jump.
According to SOUKA Kossigan, coordinator of the CDEJ TG 0221 project, the objective of this event is to unearth new athletics talent among young people in the region. “ Athletics is not a discipline explored enough here, because many believe that football is the only viable sport. We want to show children that they can flourish in other disciplines and hope to represent Togo on the international stage ,” he explains.
This initiative, while festive, also has an eye on the future. In addition to the competition, organizers plan to integrate promising children into athletics clubs to hone their skills and pave the way for future sporting careers. Despite the lack of suitable infrastructure, Kossigan remains optimistic: " We will continue working to improve conditions for future editions ."
AFOKPODJI Abra Claudette, Technical Director of the Maritime Athletics League and a Physical Education and Sports teacher, saw the participants' potential, even though most of them had never practiced these disciplines before. " With perseverance, they can improve. It's also important to educate parents about the benefits of sports for their children's development, " she says.
The championship revealed young enthusiasts like this participant, proud of his selection. " I am happy to have been chosen and I dream of becoming a high jump specialist ," he confides.
This athletics day marked a turning point for these young people, who, between competition and discovery, found a new passion. With the right infrastructure and continued support, these talented individuals could become Togolese champions.
Djamiou ABOUDOU
