Ghana's Para Powerlifters Gear Up for Russia, Eyeing Podium Glory at LA28
Team Ghana Set to Compete in Russia, Targeting Paralympic Podium
Ghana's national Para Powerlifting Team is all set to participate in the 2026 International Para Powerlifting Competition in Russia, with the event scheduled to take place from 8-9 August 2026. The five-member Team Ghana delegation will comprise three para-powerlifting athletes – Francis Kwaku, Nfodzo Patrick, and Obeng Samuel – together with Lead Coach Toulassi Frank and Assistant Coach Oheneadu George.
The team's participation is a key part of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana's ambitious 'Target the Podium' Initiative, which aims to prepare Ghanaian para-athletes for high-level international competition and ultimately the LA28 Paralympic Games.
Targeting the Podium: A National Mission
The 'Target the Podium' Initiative is driven by the leadership of NPC Ghana President Samson Deen, who has emphasized the importance of building Ghanaian para-athletes with the international experience, confidence, technical preparation, and medal-winning mentality required to challenge for the Paralympic podium. In a message delivered to the athletes through their coaching team ahead of the competition, President Deen urged them to understand the bigger national mission behind their journey.
"Our objective is to continue creating opportunities for our para-athletes to compete internationally, develop their confidence and gain the experience required to represent Ghana successfully on the world stage," President Deen said. "Los Angeles 2028 remains an important target, and every quality international competition forms part of that development journey."
International Experience and Medal-Winning Mentality
For Francis Kwaku, Nfodzo Patrick, and Obeng Samuel, every lift in Russia represents another opportunity to gain valuable international experience, measure their progress against international opposition, and strengthen their competitive mentality. Lead Coach Toulassi Frank and Assistant Coach Oheneadu George will also use the competition to assess the athletes under international competitive conditions and identify areas for further technical improvement as Ghana intensifies preparations towards LA28.
The competition in Russia will provide another important international platform for the athletes to test themselves against strong opposition and continue their development towards Los Angeles 2028. The Ghanaian delegation is scheduled to depart Russia on 10 August, marking the end of their competition in the 2026 International Para Powerlifting Competition.
A Step Towards Paralympic Glory
Ghana's participation in the 2026 International Para Powerlifting Competition in Russia is a significant step towards the country's goal of achieving Paralympic glory in Los Angeles 2028. The National Paralympic Committee of Ghana is working in partnership with the Russian Paralympic Committee to provide support for the athletes and ensure their success in the competition.
The 'Target the Podium' Initiative is a clear indication of the country's commitment to developing its para-athletes and preparing them for the highest level of international competition. With the competition in Russia just around the corner, Ghana's para powerlifters are ready to take on the challenge and make their country proud.
Source: Joy Online
