Para-Powerlifter, Folashade Oluwafemiayo shares secrets to success

Folashade Oluwafemiayo, Nigeria’s renowned para-powerlifter, has revealed the factors behind her record-breaking performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics

Para-Powerlifter, Folashade Oluwafemiayo shares secrets to success

The three-time world champion attributes her success to perseverance and endurance, frequent consumption of pounded yam, which boosts her energy, passion and determination, hard training, and focus on complex carbohydrates and moderate fat intake.

Folashade broke her own record in the over 86kg category, lifting 166kg and later 167kg, becoming the first female para-athlete to achieve this feat.

Her journey to success began in 1999, overcoming discrimination and disability. Folashade’s uncle introduced her to para-lifting, and she trained under John Oguntoye.

Folashade has won two Paralympic gold medals, three World Championships, and a Commonwealth Games gold medal.

Beyond sports, Folashade emphasizes education and empowerment for persons with disabilities.

“Para-lifting has brought me glory and financial stability,” she said. “I want to further my education in nursing and become a referee in powerlifting.”

Folashade appeals to the government to invest in para-sports infrastructure, provide monthly allowances for athletes, partner with private companies for endorsements, and empower persons with disabilities.

Her message: “There is ability in disability. Don’t look down on us; we need love, encouragement, and support.”

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