Over the weekend, a large number of spectators trooped into the multi-purpose sports facility at Borteyman in the Tema-West Municipality to watch teams compete in different sporting activities at the ongoing 13th African Games.
The spectators, made up mostly of parents and their children, were spotted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) moving from one game centre to the next to get a first-hand feel of the competitions.
The GNA observed that the public went into the facility freely without paying any gate fee, while vehicles were also allowed free parking access inside after the necessary security checks at the gate.
The stands, especially for the wrestling and swimming competitions, were packed to capacity, with people cheering their favourites with excitement.
To ensure safety, the police presence was visible on the grounds, while fire officers were also on standby with their fire tender to attend to any unforeseen incidents.
An exhibition stand has also been mounted by the Ghana Police Service at the facility, where officers interacted with the public and educate them on the ranks and mandate of the police.
The public, especially children, was also allowed to wear some of the police equipment, especially the ballistic helmet, shield, and truncheon, to take pictures and get a feel of it.
Master Matias Teye, a basic one pupil, expressed joy at being at the facility and said that he had been watching such games on television.
He said he was happy to be dressed in the police helmet, indicating it was fun wearing it.
Mr. Kwabla Tetteh, a spectator, said the facility was very attractive and presented a good relaxing place for the family, adding that the government must find a way to properly maintain the place after the games.
Pastor Charles Bediako, a food vendor at the facility, encouraged Ghanaians to take advantage of the ongoing games to visit the facility and watch the games.
He, however, called on the government to help prepare the Ghanaian teams well for such tournaments, saying most of them were not performing well due to the ill preparations and misgivings he had heard them talking about.
Miss Afiyo Manerh, a JHS one pupil, said she was enthused about the way the athletes were enjoying the games, whipping up her interest to participate more in her school games.
“I can see that they are enjoying what they are doing; it’s fun watching them. I even feel like going to swim in the pool; it’s so pure and beautiful,” she said.
GNA
WE
11 March 2024
