The National Stadium in Gaborone was electrified as Botswana’s athletes delivered stellar performances at the 2025 FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix, this past weekend, with Maun BDF Athletics club securing 3 medals out of the nation’s secured 8 medals.
Meleko Ndolo, Coach of Maun BDF Athletics Club stated, “I believe the athletes from our club have done us proud and show growth as a whole.”
Amongst the athletes sent from Maun BDF Athletics Club Bayapo Ndori and Kethobogile Haingura also took home gold in the 400m and 800m respectively, with Tshepiso Masalela claiming silver in the 800m respectively.
Leading the pack amongst the national male atheletes was Letsile Tebogo, captivating the home crowd with a remarkable display. He clinched gold in the men’s 200m, clocking a world-leading time of 19.87 seconds. Earlier in the day, Tebogo also secured silver in the 100m, finishing behind Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala.
In the men’s 400m, Leungo Scotch achieved a personal best of 44.92 seconds, earning him a commendable third place. The mixed 4x400m relay team also brought pride to the nation, securing first place with a time of 3:21.88. Other male athletes like Victor Ntweng securing bronze in the 400m hurdles.
Moreover, Botswana’s female athletes made their mark too. Oratile Nowe dominated the 800m event, taking gold with a time of 1:58.96. The women’s 4x100m relay team also made the nation proud with a gold medal finish. Finally, Refilwe Murangi, a Maun native, led the charge in the 100m Final 2, finishing first with a time of 11.54 seconds.
In total, Botswana secured six gold, 1 silver, and one bronze medal.
Despite Botswana’s strong showing on home soil, it was Kenya that led the medal table overall. Kenyan athletes dominated several track events, including wins in the men’s and women’s 5000m and men’s 100m, cementing their reputation as a long-distance powerhouse and claiming the top spot in total wins.
The Grand Prix not only showcased athletic prowess but also highlighted the unity and enthusiasm of the Batswana. Spectators filled the stadium, their cheers resonating with every race, reflecting a nation deeply passionate about athletics.
The event marked a triumphant return after its cancellation in 2024, reaffirming Botswana’s position on the global athletics stage.
With the successful hosting of the 2025 FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix, Botswana has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing athletic talent and hosting world-class sporting events. The future of athletics in the country looks promising, buoyed by the performances of its athletes and the unwavering support of its people.
To conclude Ndolo revealed that some of the clubs’ athletes have already secured places to compete in the upcoming National finals, World Relays and World Championships with athletes like Ndori already qualified and in preparation.
