The Sports Journalists Association of The Gambia (SJAG) is currently hosting “A Day With Gambian Sports Legends” at Paradise Suites Hotel, a landmark event dedicated to celebrating the country’s sporting pioneers and preserving The Gambia’s rich sporting heritage.

Held under the theme “Honouring the Pioneers and Inspiring the Future,” the event has brought together former athletes, coaches, administrators, journalists, government officials and stakeholders from across the sporting fraternity.

Sports legends from football, basketball, athletics, volleyball, and wrestling are sharing their experiences, reflecting on their achievements, challenges and contributions to the growth of Gambian sport.

In his welcoming remarks, SJAG President Omar Jarju said the event was organised to bridge the gap between the country’s sporting pioneers and the younger generation.

“We are here to celebrate the living legends of Gambian sports. You are the men and women who built our sporting history with your sweat, talent, and love for our country,” Jarju said.

Omar Jarju stressed that while sports journalists chronicle victories and milestones, they also have a responsibility to preserve the history of those who laid the foundation of Gambian sport.

“The vision behind the SJAG Day with Gambian Sports Legends is simple yet vital: to bridge the gap between yesterday’s heroes and today’s generation. We want to ensure that your legacies are not forgotten,” he added.

Delivering the keynote address, President of the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), Bai Dodou Jallow, commended SJAG for organising what he described as a timely and commendable initiative.

“The GNOC firmly believes that preserving our sporting history is as important as investing in our sporting future,” Jallow said.

Bai Dodou noted that many of the country’s sporting legends competed during periods when resources were limited but remained committed to representing The Gambia with pride.

“Many of our legends competed at a time when resources were limited, but their commitment was limitless. They carried the Gambian flag with pride, often making personal sacrifices for the love of their sport and country,” he stated.

One of the highlights of the programme is a presentation by Gambian sports legend Cherno Barra Touray, who traces his remarkable journey from the Central River Region to becoming a School Boy International and representing The Gambia in multiple sporting disciplines.

Former Ministers of Youth and Sports Samba Faal and Mass Axi Gaye have also addressed participants, reflecting on the evolution of Gambian sport and paying tribute to the country’s sporting pioneers for their invaluable contributions.

The event continues with panel discussions, storytelling sessions, and interactions between the sports legends and the younger generation, as SJAG seeks to preserve the nation’s sporting history while inspiring future generations.

By Ebrima KB Sonko