Vodza (V/R), April 7, – Ms Mercy Jane Adorkor Pappoe, winner of the women’s event at the 2026 Vodza Easter Regatta, has expressed disappointment over the low participation of indigenous women in the competition, despite emerging victorious.
She described the situation as discouraging, noting that only one local woman took part in the race, which diminished the excitement and community representation of the event.
“It would have been more fun if an indigene had won and I placed second or third,” she said, stressing that greater local involvement would enhance the appeal and competitiveness of the regatta.
Ms Pappoe therefore urged women in the community to develop interest in swimming and actively participate in future competitions to strengthen female representation in the sport.
The athlete, who is also a triathlete, explained that triathlon combines swimming, cycling and running in a single race, adding that she competes for Ghana at the national level and has featured in both the African Games and the Commonwealth Games.
She expressed confidence in her future prospects, indicating that she was focused on achieving greater success within the next two to four years.
However, she emphasised the importance of nurturing more female athletes to sustain interest and competitiveness in the discipline.
“I cannot compete forever. I would feel more fulfilled if more women join triathlon and swimming so they can take over in the future,” she said.
Ms Pappoe revealed that she is currently the only female triathlete in Ghana and reiterated her desire to see more women enter the sport to promote healthy competition and improve performance standards.
She also called for increased sponsorship and institutional support, noting that although opportunities were being created, more investment was needed to ease the financial burden on athletes.
“With support from individuals and organisations, athletes will not have to struggle for funding and can concentrate on training,” she said.
She added that enhanced support would enable Ghanaian athletes to excel internationally, win medals and bring honour to the nation.
GHBUSS
April 7, 2026
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