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The Para-table tennis couple hopes to win gold for Nigeria at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
Christiana and Kayode Alabi, a Nigerian power couple in para-table tennis, are set to compete at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
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Their journey together began in 2017 when the couple met for the first time during national trials for the Commonwealth Games.
Despite facing challenges due to their disabilities, Christiana and Kayode have persevered and supported each other throughout their relationship.
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15:04 - 25.08.2024
Paris 2024: Nigeria's Paralympic table tennis stars target podium finish
Nigeria's Paralympic table tennis contingent consists of six men and two women who will compete in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events.
They have overcome obstacles in their personal lives and training, and their dedication to each other is evident in their joint pursuit of success in sports.
Christiana and Kayode are both top-ranked players in their respective classes and have high hopes for the Paralympic Games. They are determined to bring honour to Nigeria and achieve their shared goal of success.
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We listen to each other and work well together
The couple who met in camp revealed how they started their love story, "Things were tough in Asaba and I was struggling to continue. Kayode encouraged me to join him so we could train together," Christiana told BBC.
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"It was her first time at the camp and she looked very beautiful and quiet," Kayode recalled.
Recounting their journey, Christiana said, "While our families supported us, others saw it as unusual for two people with disabilities to be together.
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"Christiana has been my coach at many tournaments. We listen to each other and work well together," Kayode said.
"I was the only child with a disability in my community, which made life very difficult," Christiana revealed.
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11:40 - 24.09.2023
Nigeria rule African Para table tennis Championships, Bags 12 Gold
Nigeria chose nine of the 14 Paralympic tickets available, while Egypt chose five in the singles events.
On their journey to the Paris Paralympics games, Christiana disclosed "I'm glad that we made it together. I expect to get to the top, and bring honour to Nigeria, my family and my husband, who has been training me all along."
The Para table tennis events take place at the South Paris Arena, starting Thursday, August 29th till Saturday, September 7th.
The schedule kicks off with the men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles events, while the men’s and women’s singles competitions will begin on Sunday, September 1 with 181 athletes competing for glory in Paris.
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