By In a moment of national pride, 17-year-old Ghanaian para-athlete Gilbert Ampiah has etched his name into the annals of international sports history by securing a bronze medal at the 2025 Marrakech Grand Prix. Competing in the High Jump T44 category at the prestigious Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan International Para Athletics Meeting in Marrakech, Morocco, Gilbert soared to an impressive height of 1.73 meters, earning his first international medal and a well-deserved spot on the podium.
Gilbert, a first-year student at St. Augustine’s College, has been a beacon of resilience and determination. His journey to this remarkable achievement began in 2023, when the young high jumper from Ekumfi Atwa stunned onlookers by clearing 1.60 meters in a local competition, outperforming able-bodied athletes. That moment was a turning point for Gilbert, igniting his dream of competing on the global stage—a dream that seemed unthinkable at the time but has now become a reality.
This year, Gilbert’s talent shone even brighter. After an outstanding performance at the 2025 Cape Coast Super Zonals, where he cleared 1.50 meters in a non-scoring high jump event, he earned his spot on Team Ghana for the 9th edition of the Marrakech Grand Prix. From April 21 to 23, Gilbert underwent official classification, a critical step to meet para-athletics competition standards, paving the way for his international debut. His relentless spirit and hard work culminated in the bronze medal win, a testament to his growing prowess and unyielding dedication.
Gilbert’s list of achievements is as inspiring as his story. He has consistently pushed his limits, setting personal bests that reflect his upward trajectory: 1.60 meters in Ekumfi Atwa in 2023, 1.82 meters during St. Augustine’s inter-house competition, and a remarkable 1.86 meters at a recent event—his current personal best. Each leap has brought him closer to his ultimate goal of competing in the Commonwealth and Paralympic Games, and the Marrakech Grand Prix, a qualifier for these prestigious events, has now given him a global platform to showcase his talent.
For many Ghanaians, Gilbert is more than just an athlete—he’s a symbol of hope and perseverance. His bronze medal not only highlights his incredible potential but also underscores Ghana’s rising presence in the international para-athletics scene. The Marrakech Grand Prix, held at the Grande Stade de Marrakech from April 24 to 26, saw over 330 athletes from 51 delegations, including 21 African nations, compete fiercely. Gilbert’s achievement amidst such tough competition is a proud moment for Ghana and a reminder of the power of determination.
As Gilbert continues his journey, this experience will undoubtedly fuel his ambition to reach even greater heights. His story resonates with anyone who dares to dream big, proving that with hard work and belief in oneself, no limit is too high to overcome. For now, we celebrate Gilbert Ampiah—a young Ghanaian para-athlete who has leapt into history and inspired a nation.
Let’s keep cheering for Gilbert as he sets his sights on the Commonwealth and Paralympic Games. The world is watching, and this is only the beginning for Ghana’s rising star.
Share your thoughts on Gilbert’s incredible achievement in the comments below, and let’s continue to support Ghana’s para-athletes as they make us proud on the global stage!
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