Refugee athletes are currently training at Chojo Camp in anticipation of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Recently, World Athletics and ASICS collaborated to host five refugee athletes at the Chojo Camp Europe in Font-Romeu, France. Athletes Farida Aborage, Seyd Taha Ghafari, Omar Hassan, Emmanuel Kiruhura Ntagunga, and Seyfu Jamaal Tahir are all vying for a spot on the Athlete Refugee Team (ART).
These athletes share similar journeys, having fled their countries in search of a better life. Despite facing numerous challenges, they remain determined to succeed in athletics. The ASICS Chojo Camp provides them with ideal training conditions, including high-altitude environments and access to top-notch facilities.
Refugee athletes are benefiting greatly from the ASICS Chojo Camp. The camp not only offers excellent training facilities but also fosters a sense of community among athletes who have faced significant hardships. Coaches and physiotherapists like Eric and Marit Toogood ensure the athletes receive comprehensive support. This environment helps them prepare both physically and mentally for the World Championships.
The Athlete Refugee Team, established in 2016, allows refugee athletes to compete collectively in World Athletics events. The team has grown, with athletes based in several countries, including Kenya, Germany, and the UK. World Athletics provides financial support and competitive opportunities for these athletes.
Refugee athletes are driven by their determination to succeed. Meanwhile, Seyd Taha Ghafari, who was not selected for the ART at the Paris Olympics, has vowed to rebuild his life and perform better in Tokyo.
“On that day, I said to myself: ‘This is not the finish for me, this is the start. ’ And I decided to run better, think better, sleep better, behave better, concentrate better. I have decided to rebuild my life mentally and physically and work hard to put more time in, from work to training or recovery. My goal is Tokyo. I will do my best for it,” said Seyd Taha Ghafari after failing to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Moreover, the ASICS Chojo Camp has become a crucial part of their journey, offering not just training but also a sense of belonging and hope for a brighter future.