LETLHOGILE MPUANG
Botswana’s lone Rio Paralympics representative Keatlaretse Mabote will receive a heros welcome upon arrival later today (Tuesday). This was revealed by the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC). The 2016 edition came to an end this past Sunday, where China emerged with the highest tally of medals (239), and Nigeria finishing with more medals than any other African country (12).
Despite going to Rio with an impressive fate, the 400meter runner, who is visual impaired cited poor preparations and injuries as some of his setbacks ahead of the competition. The runner did however produce a third finish, but was according to the time standards not good enough to see him through to the semi finals, thus just as the Olympics team, returning home empty handed.
According to a statement from the BNOC, the athlete with receive a heros welcome upon arrival with the Minister Of Youth Sports and Culture Thapelo Olopeng and other high sport officials expected to grace the occasion.
“The Paralympics team will be received from the airport upon arrival, with guests ranging from the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Thapelo Olopeng, PASSOBO and its affiliates, BNOC and its members, BNSC and its affiliates, and the public at large. The delegation will parade with the athlete to Main Mall, for a meet and great session with the public and signing autographs,” read the statement.
The communique further states that a Dinner shall also be set to officially welcome the athlete, today (Tuesday) evening.
“PASSOBO and BNOC have also planned a welcome dinner in honor of the Paralympics team from 1800hrs on the same day at Avani Hotel. His honor Thapelo Olopeng is expected to officiate the event,” ends the statement. Mabote is expected to land at 1330hrs.