Former Athletics Association chairman and renowned economist, George Haldane-Lutterodt has launched a scathing critique of the organisation of the ongoing 24th CAA African Senior Athletics Championships in Accra, describing the low turnout at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium as “a shame” for the host nation.
Speaking on the sidelines of the continental showpiece in Legon, where he watched Ghanaian athletes compete against some of Africa’s finest track and field stars, Haldane-Lutterodt expressed disappointment over the empty seats at the stadium despite the calibre of athletes participating in the championship.
According to him, athletics thrives on fan support and atmosphere, insisting that athletes perform better when cheered on by packed crowds.
“Athletics goes with supporters. The athletes need the encouragement from the stands to give off their best performances,” he said. “You cannot bring together the crème de la crème of athletics on the continent and still have an almost empty stadium. It does not project Ghana well to the rest of Africa and the world.”
Haldane-Lutterodt compared the current situation to his first experience at the African Senior Athletics Championships in Congo, where he said supporters filled the stadium to capacity throughout the competition, creating an electrifying atmosphere that elevated the event.
“My first African championship was in Congo, and the Congolese filled the stadium every day. The atmosphere made the competition exciting and memorable. Unfortunately, you cannot say the same about Ghana’s hosting, and that is worrying,” he lamented.
The veteran sports administrator stressed that Ghana, as host nation, should have done more to mobilise supporters, schools, athletics enthusiasts and sports fans to patronise the championship.
“We are showcasing ourselves to the world, so it is unacceptable to see such a limited number of spectators at the stadium. We have a lot of work to do when it comes to promoting athletics in this country,” he added.
He also drew comparisons with boxing events in Ghana, noting that the Bukom Boxing Arena has often been filled to capacity during major boxing nights.
“The last time the boxing arena was filled to the brim, the atmosphere was incredible. Why can’t athletics achieve the same? We need to market the sport better and reconnect with the people,” he stated.
Haldane-Lutterodt further claimed that athletics in Ghana has been plagued by longstanding administrative and structural challenges, which he believes have accumulated over the years and are now affecting the growth and popularity of the sport.
The outspoken former chairman also questioned why former presidents and past executives of the athletics federation were not invited to the championship, arguing that their experience and institutional knowledge could contribute significantly to the successful development of athletics in the country.
He singled out respected former administrators, including Sandy Osei-Agyemang, suggesting that the current leadership has failed to engage key personalities who helped shape athletics in Ghana over the years.
“In football, administrators may have their differences, but during major tournaments they rally behind one another for the good of the game. Why can’t athletics do the same?” he queried.
“I do not understand why former presidents and executives are sidelined instead of being consulted. These are people with experience and networks that can help develop athletics in Ghana.”
The 24th CAA African Senior Athletics Championships has attracted top athletes from across the continent to Accra, with Ghana hosting the prestigious event as part of efforts to strengthen its reputation as a destination for major international sporting competitions.
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