By Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s Winter Olympian Akwasi Frimpong, famously known as the “Black Panther on ice,” has made history by qualifying for his fifth International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) World Championships, set to take place in Lake Placid in March, 2025.
This achievement is particularly poignant for Frimpong, who faced significant challenges leading up to the competition, including a major surgery just seven months prior.
Frimpong expressed his surprise and elation at his qualification, noting that, despite extensive preparation, he had not held high hopes for this season. “Until yesterday, it seemed unlikely that I would qualify for the upcoming World Championships in Lake Placid since I wasn’t able to do a full season,” he stated.
The athlete’s journey has been marked by resilience, and he emphasised the importance of faith in his recovery and performance. “Sometimes, you just do your best and leave the rest to God,” he added.
Having represented Ghana in both bobsled and skeleton, Frimpong has become a remarkable ambassador for sports in a country that lacks snow.
His commitment to the sport and determination to excel have inspired many, especially in regions where winter sports are not traditionally pursued. With this qualification, he is poised to become the first African in history to compete in five world championships across any sliding sport, a milestone that underscores his groundbreaking role in winter athletics.
The IBSF World Championships, scheduled from March 6-9 and 15-16, 2025, will be held at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, a venue celebrated for its rich history in sliding sports.
This event marks a significant return of the championships to Lake Placid, a location that has hosted numerous prestigious winter sporting events over the years.
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