Accra: Ms Mercy Jane Adorkor Pappoe, a prominent Ghanaian triathlete, has made an appeal for intentional efforts to develop more female athletes to ensure the sustainability and progression of triathlon in the nation. Her call to action comes after her recent victory in the women's swimming competition at the 2026 Vodza Easter Regatta.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ms Pappoe expressed that her ultimate satisfaction would come from witnessing an increased number of women participating in triathlon and swimming, which would help maintain continuity and enhance competition within the sport. She emphasized the need for more women to join these sports to eventually take over and continue the legacy.
Despite her triumph, Ms Pappoe voiced her concerns over the limited participation of local women in the event, describing it as disappointing. She noted that only one indigenous participant took part, which lessened the excitement of the competition. Ms Pappoe remarked that the event would have been more engaging if a local athlete had won, underscoring the importance of local participation to elevate the overall experience of the event.
Ms Pappoe urged women in the community to cultivate an interest in swimming and other related sports to enhance female representation in future competitions. She elaborated on the nature of triathlon, which involves a combination of swimming, cycling, and running in a single race. Currently, Ms Pappoe competes for Ghana at the national level and has represented the country at the All African Games and the Commonwealth Games.
Looking forward, she shared her optimism about achieving more success in the next two to four years but emphasized the necessity of nurturing more female athletes to sustain the sport's growth. Additionally, she called for increased sponsorship and support from both the public and private sectors to alleviate the financial pressures athletes face, allowing them to focus on training without the struggle for funding.
Ms Pappoe concluded by stating that with adequate investment and encouragement, Ghanaian athletes have the potential to enhance their performance on the international stage and secure more medals for the country.