Initially, the BNOC had set a target of 20, but was forced to revise the figure to 12 after it dawned that the number would not be reached.
However, the country's medal target remains unchanged at two- one of which should be gold. The revision came after the realisation that the initial target was not achievable. BNOC chief executive officer, Tuelo Serufho said after a review they realised that their dream would not be possible hence the revised target. He said some athletes who were hopefuls sustained injuries, therefore it became apparent the target would not be met. High jumpers, Kabelo Kgosiemang and Gobe Takobana, sprinters Thapelo Ketlogetswe, Obakeng Ngwigwa and 100 metres sensation, Yatea Kambepera are some of the athletes carrying injuries. With just few weeks left before the competition, Serufho is optimistic that they will achieve the new target. He said it was promising considering improving performances from athletes attempting to qualify.Serufho however, still believes the 20 athletes' target is not ambitious, but achievable. BNOC has set July 1st as the cut off date for athletes to have qualified. "Unless there is a compelling reason we will not extend the deadline," Serufho said. Thus far, world 400 metre champion, Amantle Montsho, Nigel Amos (800 metres), Pako Seribe (400 metres), Isaac Makwala (400 metres) and boxer, Oteng Oteng have secured their places at the global sports showpiece.
