The spectacular show is over, now let the Games begin. The University of Ghana shook to the rhythm and energy of the celebrations as the 13th African Games officially burst into life in Accra on Friday night, writes Gary Lemke.
A large crowd gathered to enjoy the experience as 54 nations paraded athletes under their national flags. Among them was Team SA, with their two flag bearers being beach volleyballer Leo Williams and women’s cricket captain Nondumiso Shangase.
Kitted in their eye-catching white tracksuit tops and bottoms, Team SA stood out and the flag bearers expressed their pride at the honour.
“Honestly, I don’t have words to describe it. It’s a huge honour, I’m feeling so much happiness,” said Williams. “These are my third African Games. In the first one I won a medal, in the second one I came close but this has definitely given me even further incentive to win a medal here in Ghana.
“I’m nearing the end of my career now, but am strong and motivated to represent my country. My message to all South Africans coming through is, if you love doing what you do, keep going. Sometimes things are difficult to achieve, but with the spirit South Africans have, we can achieve anything.”
Shangase had earlier in the day been named player of the match in Team SA’s eight-wicket win over Tanzania. “I was told of this on the bus on the way back to the athletes village. I feel so honoured, it’s amazing.
“This is my first African Games and they chose me. I can’t explain the feeling.” She then paused for a moment and looked up a quote she has on her phone. “It says, ‘I live my life knowing that life happens for you and not to you, so whatever life throws at me I’ll throw it back harder’.”
Morocco, as the 2019 hosts, paraded first, and then the countries went round in alphabetical order. South Africa were the 45th country to parade, between Somalia and South Sudan, while hosts Ghana entered as the 54th and final country.
From the precision of military displays to the rhythm and energy of top Ghanaian and foreign artists, every moment was primed to captivate and inspire. These Games are themes, “Experience the African Dream”. Now it’s time for the world to stand up and take notice.
Photo by: Roger Sedres in Accra