Hayford Addai, a determined amputee athlete from Konongo Odumase Senior High School, defied the odds and stole the spotlight at the Ashanti Regional Super Zonal Athletics competition last Friday at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

In a breathtaking display of speed and resilience, Addai anchored his team to a dramatic victory in the 4x200 metres relay, securing their place in the finals.

His performance drew loud cheers from the crowd as he powered through the last leg, proving that disability is no barrier to excellence in sports.

The event, organised by the Schools and Colleges Sports Federation, saw 30 senior high schools from across the region competing in a variety of track and field events, including hurdles, javelin, shot put, high jump, long jump and triple jump.

Among the competing schools were Armed Forces Senior High Technical School, Barekese SHS, T.I. AMASS, Kumasi Wesley Girls SHS, Opoku Ware SHS, Prempeh College, St Louis SHS and Yaa Asantewaa SHS.

For 16-year-old Addai, a first-year Visual Arts student who has lived with an amputated left hand, the victory was more than just a sporting achievement—it was a moment of personal triumph.

“I feel great knowing I played my part in helping my team reach the finals,” he said, adding: “I’ve been running since my basic school days, and I’m happy to make an impact today.”

Beyond his own success, Addai hopes his performance will inspire others facing similar challenges. “Never give up on your dreams,” he urged, adding: “Work hard, stay focused, and you can achieve anything.”

His coach, Ishmael Owen Opoku, hailed his remarkable talent and resilience, insisting that disability should never be a reason for exclusion.

“People with disabilities must be given the chance to participate in sports because many of them have hidden talents waiting to be discovered,” he said.

 “This was Hayford’s first exposure to high-level competition, and he made us all proud. He’s also skilled in football, handball, and volleyball, and I hope to guide him to even greater success,” he stated.

Addai’s inspiring performance has set the stage for an electrifying final, where he and his team will be aiming to cap off their journey with a gold medal.