Can unassuming Tebogo be athletics’ new poster boy?

Friday, August 25, 2023 | 1010 Views |

Making strides: Tebogo competes in the men’s 200m
Heats during day five of the World Athletics Championships.
PIC: STEPHEN POND/GETTY IMAGES FOR WORLD ATHLETICS

Since Usain Bolt’s retirement from the track six years ago, the search for athletics’ new poster boy is still well and truly on course. The athletics world’s gazing eyes have often preyed on Letsile Tebogo to succeed the Jamaican, but in contrast to the Jamaican the local golden boy is a soft-spoken, unassuming character, observes Mmegi Sport Correspondent, KABELO BORANABI

During his prime, Bolt had a bold presence on the track; he was charismatic and an ever-animated character before and after every race. The former Jamaican sprinter’s confidence presented him as an ultimate doer and his presence could be felt miles away.

He backed his loud character with action on the track as he recorded the fastest times in the two short sprints, the 100m and 200m. Since Bolt, no athlete has cemented his position as the World Athletics poster boy. South African quarter-mile runner, Wayde van Niekerk was once tipped to claim the throne as he cruised to a 400m world record at the 2016 Olympic Games.

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