SA Demands Probe After Athletes Face Poor Conditions at Accra Championships
The African Athletics Championships in Accra opened amid sharp criticism over athlete welfare, with South African shot put champion Aiden Smith speaking out about restricted meals and substandard accommodation. Smith said food portions were strictly rationed – limited to a single chicken bone or fish serving – and morning meals offered just one egg instead of his usual competition diet. He and other team members also reported rooms lacking blankets, fridges and basic toiletries, and were unable to keep air-conditioning remotes. Technical problems compounded the frustrations, as several Day 1 event results failed to post online due to power outages and backup generator issues. Some heats went unrecorded, forcing athletes to review race footage themselves to confirm winners. South Africa’s sports minister secured alternative hotel rooms for his 34-member team, while Ghana’s National Sports Authority apologized. Officials say they’ve addressed food supply concerns, isolated power circuits to prevent further outages and improved media workspaces.
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