Games team focuses on gaining experience

Mosah Mokganedi | Wednesday February 19, 2014 16:13

 

Sitale was speaking at a press briefing to update the media on preparations and the announcement of the Che de Mission. He however, pointed out that this does not mean that they will take the foot of the pedal during competition. ”Of course as hosts pressure is on us to do well, but our main objective is to develop elite sports at junior level and leave a legacy,” Sitale said.

He said their intention is however, not just to participate, but also to compete and bring glory to the country.

Although the team has not been finalised Sitale said they expected to field about 204 athletes. The medals target has not been set. Botswana fielded only 17 athletes during the inaugural Africa Youth Games in Morocco four years ago.

On the progress of the team’s preparations Sitale said preparations are progressing well for all 21 disciplines. Some teams are expected to compete in South Africa as part of preparations. Botswana National Olympics Committee (BNOC) Local Organising Committee (LOC) chairperson, Marumo Morule said the Games bring huge opportunities for local athletes. ”

This include development of sporting codes that are not traditionally successful nor exposed on the international scene,” he said. Meanwhile eight of the 16 facilities that are going to be used for the Games are being renovated. According to Botswana Africa Youth Games Organising Committee (BAYGOC) chief executive officer Tuelo Serufho the other eight venues are ready.

Meanwhile, Gaborone Dam has been given the nod to host rowing and canoeing as water levels are satisfactory. There were fears that the two disciplines might be taken elsewhere as the water levels continued to drop but it has emerged that there is a sufficient amount for the Games.