Mother and Daughter Win Medals in Weightlifting at National Sports Festival
It was a proud moment for the Olarinoye family as both mother and daughter won medals for Lagos State in the ongoing National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, currently taking place in Ogun State, Nigeria.
The remarkable duo, competing in the weightlifting event, showed strength and determination in their respective categories, continuing the family’s strong legacy in the sport. With weightlifting clearly etched into their lives, the Olarinoye name has become one to watch at the Festival.
Monks (mother) and Florence (daughter) Olarinoye, who both competed in the women’s weightlifting.
Ronke led the way, winning two medals in the 45kg: GOLD with a lift of 65kg, Silver finishing 2nd overall in her category lifting a total of 140kg.
Florence on her part, won the Silver medal in the total lifts from the 59kg, going up against the more experienced Folashade Rafiatu Lawal.
Interestingly, Florence is a niece to the more famous Adijat Olarinoye who won a Gold medal for Nigeria at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Ronke (Florence’s mom) is Adijat’s sister.
The National Sports Festival has been full of heartwarming family stories. From parents coaching their children like the Ekuta family with Catherine and Ewa guiding their daughter Enku in Judo to Victor David coaching his daughter Mfoniso in Kung Fu, the festival is proving to be more than just a sporting competition; it’s a celebration of family, legacy, and teamwork.
The 2024 Gateway Games will continue until the closing ceremony on May 29, 2025, with more inspiring moments expected as athletes from across the country continue to compete.
