- For once, Botswana’s biggest names, including Letsile Tebogo and Collen Kebinatshipi, will headline the national finals, offering a rare local showcase ahead of the World Athletics Relays
TLOTLO KEBINAKGABO
This year’s Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) National Finals are set to break with tradition, bringing together the country’s top elite athletes on home soil in an uncommon show of depth and star power.
BAA chief executive Mabua Mabua said the presence of leading athletes marks a notable shift from previous editions, where many would be competing abroad.
“Usually during the time of national finals the country’s elite athletes will be abroad running international meets like the Diamond League and others,” he said in a telephone interview. “So this year they have made it upon themselves to grace the national finals to give Batswana a great show at the same time helping to build the excitement as the World Athletics Relays nears.”
Star Lineup
The event, scheduled for April 3 to 5 at the National Stadium, is expected to feature Olympic and world champions alongside other top talent.
Among them is Letsile Tebogo, the reigning Olympic 200 meters champion, who is expected to compete in the 100m and 200m, with a possible appearance in the 400m. He will be joined by Collen Kebinatshipi, the current world 400m champion, who is also expected to run the 100m.
In the men’s 400m, Bayapo Ndori and Leungo Scotch — part of Botswana’s gold medal-winning 4x400m relay team at last year’s World Athletics Championships — are expected to compete, alongside Lee Eppie.
The men’s 800m field will include Kethobogile Haingura, while Tshepiso Masalela is set to compete in the 1500m.
Women’s Field
The women’s events will feature Oratile Nowe, the national record holder in both the 800m and 1500m. Nowe clocked 4:07.13 in the 1500m in February, continuing her strong run of form.
She will be joined by Obakeng Kamberuka in the 400m, alongside Naledi Monthe and Kennekae Batisani.
Relay Focus
Mabua said the gathering of elite athletes also presents an opportunity to boost the sport’s profile and attract sponsorship.
“This means a lot for us,” he said. “It will go a long way in helping promoting our athletics, still also those who will sponsor this year’s national finals will get the needed exposure.”
National team coach Chilume Ntshwarang said the timing of the finals is significant as preparations continue for the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone from May 2 to 3.
He noted that the competition will help finalize the national team.
Entrance fees are set at P50 for the grandstand and P30 for other sections, with free entry for children under 15.