The faith of Head Coach Chilume Ntshwarang in the 14-strong Team Botswana is second to none
GAZETTE REPORTER
The Botswana athletics team is ready to go head-to-head with their capable counterparts at the upcoming 2023 World Athletics Championships, Head Coach Chilume Ntshwarang has said.
With the event set for 19 August to 27 August at the prestigious National Athletics Centre in Budapest, Hungary the nation’s contingent of 14 athletes (comprising eight males and six females) is ready to make its mark on the global stage under the charge of Ntshwarang, whose belief in the team’s prowess is second to none.
The competition, now in its 19th iteration, promises a riveting showcase of athletic excellence.
Notable medal bets
Among Botswana’s notable medal bets are Letsile Tebogo for the 100m and 200m events, Leungo Scotch for the 400m and 4x400m races, Bayapo Ndori and Collen “Badboy” Kebinatshipi in the 400m and 4x400m relay, and Tshepiso Masalela for the 800m event. The men’s 4x400m relay will also feature Zibani Ngozi, Baboloki Thebe and Laone Ditshetelo.
In the women’s division, Botswana is fielding a lineup of exceptional athletes including Oratile Nowe in the 800m and 4x400m relay that will also showcase the talents of Lydia Jele, Obakeng Kamberuka, Golekanye Chikani, Galefele Moroko and Thompang Basele.
Expressing confidence in the team’s preparedness in a recent telephone interview, Ntshwarang stated: “These athletes had individual training commitments, working closely with their personal coaches.
Peak performance
“Several of them have participated in the highly competitive Diamond League and European Circuits. As we approach the event, our focus is on refining their skills, ensuring optimal recovery and peak performance.
“This team boasts a mix of young, promising talent and seasoned athletes, instilling in us with great confidence in their abilities.”
Even though some of the athletes will be making their debut on the international senior level, Ntshwarang is not concerned about stage fright or intimidation. “While the transition might seem challenging,” he explained, “they know that approaching it with ease is the way to go.
Boosting confidence
“Many of these athletes have already competed in Europe against the same competitors that they will meet in Hungary. Besides, the presence of experienced athletes like Jele and Scotch – who have traversed this terrain before – will prove invaluable in calming nerves and boosting confidence.”
Athletics Wins Big
Meanwhile, the recent 42nd Annual Botswana Sports Awards witnessed a resounding victory for the athletics community.
The accolades included Sports Administrator of the Year that was bestowed upon former BAA president Paphane Botlhale. Athletics also clinched the titles of National Sport Association of the Year and Coach of the Year for Kebonyemodisa Dose Mosimanyane.
Letsile Tebogo, undeniably a star, claimed the coveted titles of Sportsperson of the Year and Junior Sportsman of the Year that he topped of with the Minister’s Special Award. Bayapo Ndori secured the distinction of Sportsman of the Year while the title of Junior Sportswoman of the Year went to Obakeng Kamberuka.
The Men’s 4x400m relay team stood tall as Team of the Year, solidifying athletics’ dominance on and off the track.