The Gambia Pentathlon Association (GPA) on November 20 held its elective congress to report back to its general assembly and elect new officials.
The event took place at the GRTS building and ended with the election of a 10-member executive committee led by Saikou B Jarju. Others include Musa B Suso as vice president, Bai Bittaye as secretary general, Sira Ceesay Asst. secretary general, Laity Mbye Treasurer, Bakary S Darboe Asst. treasurer, Lamin Fadera Auditor, Ebrima Bah Asst. Auditor, Bakary Manneh PRO and Sulayman Badjie Asst. PRO.
Addressing the congress, GPA president Saikou Jarju said since its formation 8 years ago, the association has been active organising domestic championships and participating and even winning medals in international ones. He informed the congress that the GPA is recognized and affiliated by the continental body CAMP as well as the international governing body of the sport UIPM, adding the Gambian association has attended meetings and congresses of both associations.
At the home front, the National Sports Council has recognised the GPA as a national sport association.
Future plans
According to Jarju, the GPA intends to introduce a City Walk for health programme across villages and towns in the country, a regional and schools championship. A pentathlon is a contest featuring five events. The name is derived from Greek: combining the words pente (five) and -athlon (competition) (Greek: π????????). It consists of shooting, swimming, fencing, equestrianism, and cross-country running.
