13-year-old Nigerian fencing athlete, Peluola Akinbamiro has revealed how her journey to fencing was inspired by her mother, Kitan, saying she fueled her passion for the sport.
Akinbamiro who is a promising athlete, in an interview with Sportxvibe.com.ng, acknowledged her mother’s effort, saying she enrolled her to Fort Bend Fencing Academy in Houston, in an effort to actualize her dreams.
“I first discovered fencing by chance while watching a television show. The speed, the grace, and the power behind every move caught my attention and wouldn’t let go. I turned to my mum and said, “I want to try this.” And from that moment, everything began to change.
“My mum believed in me before I even knew what this journey would look like. She reached out to a fencing group, found me a better academy, and made sure I had every opportunity to train and grow. Her support became the foundation for everything I’ve achieved since,” she said.
The teenager who reconnected with my roots after pledging her allegiance, described the decision as the right step to her becoming great in the sport.
Ahead of the 23rd African Fencing Championship, she expressed optimism to secure a medal and finish among the top three.
“My goal is clear: to finish in the top 3 and win a medal for Nigeria. I know it won’t be easy, but I’m ready. I’ve trained for this moment, sacrificed for it, and dreamed about it since the day I picked up my first foil, she said.
She stressed that her ultimate dream is to represent Nigeria at the Olympics.
“I’m determined to make that dream a reality. It all began with a spark of curiosity, but it was my mum’s love and belief that turned it into something real. Now, every time I step onto the piste, I carry her strength, my country’s colors, and my unwavering determination to make history,” she said.