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Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo Thursday etched his name in the annals of history, becoming the first African to win the Olympic 200 meters. Tebago delivered a stunning performance that upstaged American sprinter Noah Lyles’ bid for a double sprint victory in Paris.
Tebogo, only 21 years old, crossed the finish line in a remarkable 19.46 seconds, setting a new African record and securing Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold. His dominant run allowed him to ease up in the final strides, yet he still outpaced American Kenny Bednarek, who took silver with a time of 19.62 seconds. Lyles, the newly crowned 100m champion, could only manage bronze with a time of 19.70 seconds.
This historic win places Tebogo among the sprinting greats, making him only the second African to claim an Olympic sprint title, following in the footsteps of South Africa’s Reggie Walker, who won the 100 meters at the 1908 London Games. Tebogo’s time also places him fifth on the all-time list, ahead of American star Erriyon Knighton.
Reflecting on his monumental achievement, Tebogo expressed his gratitude and relief. “It was really a beautiful race for me,” he said. “When we made it to the final, my coach told me, ‘Now my job is done, it’s up to you to see what you can do. Whether it’s a medal or not, just finish the race healthy.’ That’s all I could’ve wished for. I’m happy I finished the race healthier than before.”
Tebogo’s victory is even more poignant considering the personal loss he endured earlier this year. His mother, Seratiwa, passed away in May, and Tebogo honored her memory by inscribing her date of birth on his running shoes. “It’s basically me carrying her through every stride that I take inside the field,” he shared. “It gives me a lot of motivation. She’s watching up there, and she’s really, really happy.”
After his mother’s passing, Tebogo took a month off from training and competition. Despite this setback, he emerged stronger and more determined, crediting his team for their unwavering support. “I’m really grateful for the team around me. They really pushed me through thick and thin. We had our ups and downs, but we just made sure that we pulled through and made it to the Olympics.”
The final, which lacked the pre-race hype of the 100m, unfolded before a packed Stade de France. Lyles, who had been brimming with confidence, received a huge reception from the crowd, but his exuberance led to a yellow card for breaking the starting block. Meanwhile, Tebogo quietly took his position in lane seven and focused on the task at hand.
As the race unfolded, Lyles initially appeared strong, but by the home straight, Tebogo had asserted his dominance. He crossed the finish line with a relaxed composure, even making a brushing-off gesture, signaling his control over the competition. Bednarek followed for silver, while Lyles, unable to replicate his 100m success, lay exhausted on the track.
In recognition of Tebogo’s historic achievement, Botswana Friday declared a national “afternoon day-off” to celebrate. The announcement, made by the Permanent Secretary to the President, Emma Peloetletse, praised Tebogo as “Botswana’s Sensation” and noted the significance of his victory, not just for Botswana, but for Africa as a whole.
“His Excellency, Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, hereby declares to the nation, that he has found it a fitting tribute to Letsile Tebogo to grant Batswana and residents an afternoon day-off, on this very day, Friday, August 9, 2024,” the statement read. President Masisi also extended his heartfelt congratulations to Tebogo and paid tribute to his late mother, underscoring the pride and gratitude felt by the entire nation.
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