By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)
In a phone interview with Henry Bockarie, an athletic from Kenema, the sportsman uttered appreciations for the chance to showcase the abilities of little people.
He stressed that despite their bodily challenges; little people are capable of realizing great feats and called for external support to enable them to participate not only at the civic level but also at nationally and internationally levels.
Bockarie underlined the importance of accepting and embracing one’s originality.
In her statement, Rosaline Ashcroft, described the event as a podium to challenge societal perceptions about little people’s abilities in the country’s sporting activities, doing it with huge passion and focus.
She, however; emphasized the inclusivity of the event, which is providing a sense of fitting for individuals who often feel isolated in their communities.
She underscored the importance of parental acceptance and societal recognition of little people’s capabilities.
It is observed that the Sierra Leone Association of Little People (SLALP) second annual athletic sport hosted over the weekend at the Fourah Bay community field in Freetown was a blessing to the participants and organizers, to the people within the capital city.
The event was supported by some important stakeholders from the Fourah Bay community and other friendly personalities from various districts across the country, doing it to demonstrate their dreams and passions for sports.
Musu Conteh, a participant from Makeni, admired the occasion for fostering peace and unity among the little people. Despite individual trials, Musu expressed happiness in participating in the activities organized by the association which have helped her embrace her identity.
Musu is a business woman and family icon. She talked of the importance of family support and emphasized the need for societal acceptance and recognition for the little people.
Participants were awarded medals with the blue house securing the first position, followed by the white house in second place and the yellow house in third.
The event provided a platform for unity and progress for another sporting discipline.