Anambra State Sports Ambassador, Mary Onyali-Omagbemi, has advised Team Anambra to strive for excellence, in spite of difficulties they encounter at the ongoing National Sports Festival.

Onyali-Omagbemi, a former Africa's track queen, made the call when she visited members of Team Anambra at the Yaba College of Technology 'Games Village' Thursday where the team is accommodated.

She noted that the three principles -- Dedication, Determination and Discipline -- were the virtues that sustained her on the tracks for three decades that she dominated the sprints.

Onyali-Omagbemi urged the athletes to see their participation at the festival as an opportunity to launch themselves into stardom.

"I was on the tracks for three decades, participated in the Olympics five times and won two bronze medals.

"Your journey has just stated. You must envision and work hard to be able to compete with the champions.

"You must see beyond your challenges, accommodation and motivation. Have your eyes fixed on the ultimate goal.

"In spite of the difficulties of my time, I was able to distinguish myself and I urge you to endeavour to do better than Onyali-Omagbemi," she admonished.

The Anambra State Commissioner for Youth and Sport, Dr Edozie Aroh, commended Onyali-Omagbemi for her passion for the growth of sports in the state.

"Just bear with us, things will get much better as we progress but what is more important is to give your best and make names for yourselves, it is a golden opportunity," he also intoned.