Botswana declares public holiday to celebrate Tebogo’s 200m gold at Paris Olympics

Botswana President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has declared Friday afternoon a public holiday to honor Letsile Tebogo, the nation’s newest sporting hero.

Tebogo made history by winning Africa’s first gold medal in the 200m event at the Olympic Games, setting a new African record with a remarkable time of 19.46 seconds.

The 21-year-old competing in his first Olympic Games, stunned the world with his performance. He defeated the favourite Noah Lyles, who had already claimed gold in the 100m and was aiming for a sprint double. Lyles, who finished third in 19.70 seconds, later attributed his loss to COVID-19. Kenny Bednarek of the USA took silver with a time of 19.62 seconds.

• Tebogo shocks world with 200m gold as Lyles’ double dream dashed
• Noah Lyles reveals COVID-19 battle after 200m disappointment

Tebogo’s gold medal not only marked a personal milestone but also positioned him fifth on the all-time world list for the 200-meter event. His triumph is celebrated as a significant achievement for Botswana and the entire African continent.

The Office of the President issued a press release announcing the public holiday, emphasizing the importance of Tebogo’s historic win. President Masisi praised Tebogo’s achievement, stating, “This decision honors Letsile Tebogo as the first Motswana and the first African to win a gold medal in the 200 meters in Olympic history. His performance is outstanding and worthy of the nation pausing to celebrate him in a unique, appropriate, and responsible manner that will be etched in the annals of the Republic’s history.”

200m victory dedicated to late mother

The youngster’s victory carried a deep emotional significance as he dedicated it to his late mother, Seratiwa, who passed away in May. In tribute, he wore her birth date on his shoes during the race, adding a heartfelt dimension to his historic achievement.

Botswana will commemorate the success with a nationwide holiday, underscoring the profound impact of his win on both the nation and the continent.

Source: 3news.com