Despite the inherent risks associated with motorcycles, legendary Ghanaian footballer Ntow Gyan boldly preferred using one over a car, defying the established norms in the football world.
Ntow Gyan has always held a deep affinity for motorcycles. He shared, “I’ve never used a car on a road trip. I’ve always ridden a motorbike.” This unwavering passion for two-wheelers extended beyond recreational use; he even rode his motorcycle to training sessions and match days. “I attended training on a motorcycle, riding from Sunyani to Kumasi,” Gyan recalled.
Gyan’s penchant for motorcycles did not go unnoticed. As a player for Asante Kotoko, he violated the club’s strict rule prohibiting the use of motorcycles, a rule implemented after a previous accident involving another star player. Gyan was subsequently summoned to the Manhyia Palace to address the issue.
Instead of penalizing Gyan, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Opoku Ware I, surprisingly decided to engage in dialogue. He offered Gyan a VW Passat in exchange for his motorcycle. However, Gyan stood his ground, declaring that he would quit the club if his beloved motorcycle was taken from him.
In a gesture of respect, Otumfuo relented and allowed Gyan to keep his motorcycle. Thus, Gyan continued to ride his motorcycle to and from training and matches, defying the odds by remaining accident-free despite the inherent risks.
Gyan’s unwavering use of a motorcycle despite the risks raises important questions about safety. While he insists on the prudence of his riding habits, experts emphasize the dangers associated with motorcycles. The lack of adequate protection and the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road make them far more susceptible to severe injuries or fatalities in accidents compared to car drivers.
Gyan’s safety record speaks to his awareness of the risks involved and his responsible riding habits. He attributes his accident-free history to his careful nature and his abstinence from alcohol and similar substances. This suggests that while he embraces the exhilaration of riding a motorcycle, he does so with a mindful approach.
Ntow Gyan’s unwavering commitment to using a motorcycle, even when faced with opposition, showcases his independent spirit and his willingness to challenge societal norms. His defiant nature and his ability to defy expectations have become synonymous with his legacy as a pioneering footballer who broke barriers both on and off the field.