Botswana celebrates Tebogo's historic Olympic Gold Medal with National Day off
Gold medallist Letsile Tebogo of Botswana celebrates after winning the men's 200m at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 8, 2024. PHOTO | AFP
What you need to know:
- This unprecedented achievement has been celebrated across the nation, and President Masisi's decision reflects the immense pride and admiration the country holds for Tebogo's groundbreaking success.
Dar es Salaam. President of Botswana’s Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi, has declared Friday, August 9, 2024, a national day-off to honour athlete, Letsile Tebogo’s historic Olympic Gold medal triumph.
Tebogo made history as the first Motswana and first African to win a Gold Medal in the 200 meters at the Olympics.
This unprecedented achievement has been celebrated across the nation, and President Masisi's decision reflects the immense pride and admiration the country holds for Tebogo's groundbreaking success.
In his announcement, President Masisi praised Tebogo's performance as not only an outstanding athletic accomplishment but also a significant moment for Botswana and the African continent.
The President emphasized that the day-off is a tribute to Tebogo's exceptional achievement and a unique opportunity for Batswana and residents to come together in celebration.
"This is a momentous occasion in the history of our nation," President Masisi stated.
"Letsile Tebogo's victory on the Olympic stage is a testament to his dedication, skill, and perseverance.
It is fitting that we pause to honor his remarkable accomplishment and celebrate this historic achievement in a manner that will be remembered for generations."
Botswana will observe this special day with various celebrations, reflecting the nation's collective joy and pride in Tebogo's success.
Letsile Tebogo became the first African to win the Olympic 200 metres title on Thursday when he powered clear of American duo Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles in 19.46 seconds to claim Botswana's first Olympic gold medal.
Tebogo, who won bronze at the worlds last year and set a national record of 9.86 when finishing sixth in the Paris 100m final, produced a dominant run to become the fifth-fastest man in history over 200m.
Bednarek chased him all the way to take a second successive silver in 19.62 seconds, with Lyles, hoping to become the first American to complete the sprint double since Carl Lewis 40 years ago, third in 19.67.
Immediately after the race, USBY officials said Lyles had Covid and a yellow card appeared against his name in the official results
