Mogae fetes athletes

Editor | Thursday August 9, 2007 00:00

Lately, sports' supporters started wondering if the President ever acknowledged the good work that this country's athletes have been doing on the international scene.

But the President has taken us all by surprise and invited the athletes for lunch at State House.

Our athletes have shown the nation that they deserve celebration as they have continued to hoist the country's flag high.

The performance of Amantle Montsho in the 400m race at the AAG compelled the continent to notice that Botswana has come of age and is ready to compete with the best.

Montsho had already proved her mettle at this level many a times but her stay in Senegal seems to have paid dividends. The 4X400m relay team also did not disappoint as they brought home a gold medal for the second consecutive time.

After finishing second at the Sasol Eight Nations Tournament in South Africa last month, the national Under 23 soccer team went to China and won a gold medal in the Four Nations tournament which ended on Sunday.

Their victory has made people in Asia want to know more about Botswana football. Their win over Japan caused such a stir as to prompt discussion about whether the Japanese coach should be allowed to keep his job. 

The decision by the President will go a long way in motivating the Under 23s ahead of their all-important Olympic Games qualifier against Cameroon on August 22 at the National Stadium in Gaborone.

For these youngsters to excel at any level, it is people like Rre Mogae who have to make the Dream Team feel important.

Our belief is that the likes of Montsho, the 4X400m relay team, long jumper, Gable Garenamotse, high jumper Kabelo Kgosiemang and the 'Young Zebras' have to be given the support they need in preparation for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. There is no doubt that Botswana has made a mark on the international scene and the nation and athletes should not look back. 

                                      Today's Thought
It is important that you recognise your progress and take pride in your accomplishments.
Share your achievements with others. Brag a little. The recognition and support of those around you is nurturing.
                                    -  Rosemarie Rossetti