It was a final filled with suspense, excitements and actions as Rivers State born Godgift Timibra battled with John Dickson from Bauchi State in the final of the 16th edition of NNPC/Chevron Junior Masters Tennis finals held at the Lagos Lawn tennis club in Onikan on Sunday.
Timibra came from 2-5 set down to edge Dickson 7-6, after both players tied on 6-6 set.
Speaking after the game, Timibra expressed his delight but said he was surprised to emerge victorious.
“I feel very happy to win the NNPC/Chevron Junior Masters Tennis tournament, but I did not believe I could win it. I stepped up my game and by God’s grace I won, ” Timibra said.
The 3rd runner up at the 15th edition said he plans be like top tennis players like; Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
Dickson who came second expressed sadness for not taking his chances after leading 5-2.
“After leading 5-2, I relaxed my play thinking the game was over; I should have finished the game, ”Dickson noted.
On his plans for the future, the Kaduna born tennis player said he wants to continue with his education and playing tennis.
Timibra outclassed Christopher Otodo of Kaduna State in the semifinals to reach the finals. Dickson booked his final tickets after defeating Tochukwu Eze of Imo State in the semis.
In his remarks, Deji Haastrup, GM, Policy, Government & Public affairs, Chevron Nigeria said:
“Our special thanks also go to the leadership of the Ministry of Youth Development; National Sports Commission and Prime Sports International for partnering with us over the years to ensure that the objectives of this program are realized. We appreciate the collaborative and mutually beneficial relationship, “ Haastrup affirmed.
“This tennis program was instituted to build capacity among our youth and provide a positive vent for youthful energies amongst our young ones. This commitment to building capacity has in turn, provided a veritable platform to aid the health and mental development of our Nigerian youths.
“Over the years, the NNPC/Chevron tennis tournament has become a tool for our organization to contribute to the improvement of sports and youth development in Nigeria. We intend to keep to this ideal of raising great champions for the future.”
Speaking also at closing event, Clay Neff, Chairman/MD, Chevron Nigeria Limited noted:
“We have all just witnessed another great display of tennis by these youngsters, playing with sheer innocence, passion and vigour. I’m sure as we watched them, many saw in them the prospects of future champions at the highest level of national and international tennis.”
“Our support for sports development in Nigeria is premised on the vital role that sports play in improving the health of the youth and in enhancing their competitive spirits.”
Anthony Nlebem
