TAPHA TINE APPEALS FOR LIFTING OF BAN ON BOREH DORR

By Sulayman Bah Senegalese wrestler Tapha Tine is appealing to the sports authorities to rescind the current ban imposed on Borreh Dorr in the country. National Sports Council last month announced to the consternation of wrestling stakeholders the indefinite suspension of Borreh Dorr without forwarding a reason. According to the NSC, the umbrella body of sporting associations, got orders from the top. The pronouncement –made at the Independence Stadium –was received with widespread disappointment among fans who expressed fear that this could lead to the eventual killing of this fast growing traditional sport. And adding his voice for authorities to rescind the ban, Tapha Tine said at a press conference held on Saturday: “wrestling is doing great here. It only needs support to see it climb up. I urge the authorities to help develop the sport by lifting the sanctions imposed on it. This will surely see it grow.” Answering a question as to whether he will be open to suggestion of competing in the country, he said: “Why not! I am willing to take on Balla Gaye II in the Gambia for a revenge match.’ He concludes, ‘My plan is to launch a Gambian-based fan club like Modou Lo and other Senegalese wrestlers.’ The 27-year-old wrestler arrived in the early hours of Friday morning via the Banjul terminal from his base in Baol on the invitation of Gambian wrestling promoter Lamin Champion Sound. A line up of combats was assembled with one of the flags named after the Senegalese ace and featuring Abo Sarr and Boy-Balla. Tapha Tine bit the dust in his last combat against then reigning champion Balla Gaye II last year. Modou Lo, another big name, was the last wrestler to visit Gambia three months ago.]]>