Advertisement
Mmegi

Women’s relay team awaits gene test results

Women’s 4x100m team member, Boitshepiso Kelapile PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO
Women’s 4x100m team member, Boitshepiso Kelapile PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO

Botswana women's relay team is awaiting results after undergoing mandatory tests in South Africa to determine their biological sex. The move is in line with the World Athletics Council's decision to approve sex-determining region Y gene (SRY) tests, which concern eligibility conditions to compete in the women's category for world ranking competitions.

The new regulations came into effect on September 1, 2025, and were applied during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo last year.

All athletes who compete in the women's categories are required to undergo a once-off test for the SRY gene, a reliable proxy for determining biological sex. The tests are conducted via a cheek swab or blood test.

Advertisement
Editor's Comment
Celebrate responsibly, put safety first this holiday

“Safety first is safety always”– Charles M HayesAs most people begin travelling across the country to spend the President’s Holidays with family and friends, there is every reason to embrace the joy and togetherness that this period brings.While holiday periods bring joy, they are sadly often accompanied by a rise in road accidents, violent incidents and other avoidable tragedies. Too often, families that set out to celebrate together end...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up