Eyes on Tebogo as Budapest test begins
Calistus Kolantsho | Saturday August 12, 2023 06:00
The tournament begins next week Thursday, and the nation's attention is unequivocally focused on Letsile Tebogo, arguably Botswana's most treasured sports asset at present.
The team's objective is to secure Botswana's inaugural medal at the World Championships. In the previous edition of the championships, Botswana was represented by nine athletes.
The current team comprises a blend of seasoned athletes and emerging talents, as the nation is in a phase of rebuilding. The season has yielded mixed outcomes for the women's team, compounded by injuries to experienced members. Returning to top form after an extended hiatus is frequently a daunting task in athletics.
The nation's hopes rest prominently on the shoulders of the sprint prodigy, Tebogo, who stands as a strong contender for a podium finish. He is set to compete in both the 100m and 200m events.
Tebogo boasts personal bests (PB) of 9.91 in the 100m and 19.50 in the 200m. The men's 4x400m relay team cannot be discounted either, possessing experience and an understanding of the requirements for securing a podium spot.
Bayapo Ndori is a familiar face on the grand stage, having delivered a surprise performance during last year's competition in Oregon, where he reached the men's 400m final.
He holds a PB of 44.61. Leungo Scotch has demonstrated consistent performance this season, achieving a PB of 44.82. Collen Kebinatshipi has displayed his potential as the future of the 400m discipline, earning his place in Budapest through his performance in the Africa Under-20 championships. Kebinatshipi's PB stands at 44.91.
Tshepiso Masalela will participate in the men's 800m event, holding a PB of 1:45.24.
The team: Men- Tebogo (100m/200m), Masalela (800m), Ndori (400m, 4x400m relay), Scotch (400m, 4x400m relay), Kebinatshipi (400m, 4x400m relay), Zibane Ngozi (4x400m relay), Laone Ditshetelo (4x400m relay), Baboloki Thebe (4x400m relay). Women- 4x400m relay team: Lydia Jele, Thomphang Basele, Obakeng Kamberuka, Golekanye Chikani, Galefele Moroko and Oratile Nowe.