A strong contingent of about 400 athletes and 63 technical officials of Team have arrived in Calabar, Cross River State, determined to secure qualification tickets as the South-South Zonal Elimination of the National Intermediate Games gets underway.

Despite the postponement of the National Intermediate Games till next year, the National Sports Commission (NSC) wants the zonal elimination for the Games to hold.

Soon after the completion of the zonal elimination for the National Intermediate Games, which will end on September 12, all the states will commence the zonal elimination for Enugu 2026 National Sports Festival.

Team Delta contingent, comprising athletes, coaches, technical officials and other members of the delegation, arrived in Calabar on Wednesday ahead of the zonal competition, which serves as the gateway to the national stage.

The opening phase of the competition commenced with the screening of athletes and a technical meeting to ascertain eligibility and familiarise participating states with the rules, fixtures, venues, schedules and other technical requirements.

With qualification places up for grabs, Team Delta is expected to be at its competitive best as athletes square up against their counterparts from across the South-South zone.

Addressing the contingent before the commencement of the competition, the Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, charged the athletes and officials to remain disciplined, focused and committed throughout the championship.

The Commission Chairman urged the athletes to compete with the confidence and fighting spirit for which Delta is renowned, while reminding them that they are not only competing for personal glory but also carrying the hopes and aspirations of the state.

He also encouraged the coaches and officials to provide the athletes with the necessary technical and moral support, stressing the importance of sportsmanship, discipline and adherence to the rules.

The Delta State Sports Commission expressed confidence in the ability of the contingent to deliver strong performances and secure qualification for the National Intermediate Games.

The South-South elimination brings together athletes from states across the region, all battling for the opportunity to advance to the national competition.

The Guardian, however, learnt Thursday that some states were unable to participate in the zonal elimination due to lack of funds.