Botswana is in a state of jubilation after its sprinter, Letsile Tebogo, made history by clinching the gold medal in the men’s 200m race at the Paris Olympics. In an unprecedented move, President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has declared a national afternoon day-off on Friday, August 9th, to honor Tebogo’s extraordinary achievement.
Tebogo’s victory was a monumental upset, as he defeated the heavily favored Noah Lyles of the United States to become the first Motswana and African to win Olympic gold in the 200m. His winning time of 19.46 seconds was a new African record.
President Masisi described Tebogo as “Botswana’s Sensation” and stated that the half-day holiday is a fitting tribute to his remarkable accomplishment. The President also expressed gratitude to Tebogo’s late mother, whose memory the sprinter honored by wearing her birthdate on his shoe during the race.
Tebogo dedicated his victory to his mother, revealing that her passing had been a significant motivation for him. Despite the emotional toll, he expressed immense joy and satisfaction with his performance.
The nation is united in celebrating Tebogo’s triumph, which has brought immense pride and joy to Botswana.