Gaborone came alive on Saturday, April 12, as thousands of spectators packed into the national stadium to witness the FNB Golden Prix — but all eyes were on one man: Letsile Tebogo. The local sprint sensation made a triumphant return to the track, reminding fans why he’s considered one of the brightest stars in athletics today.
After skipping the 2024 edition, Tebogo didn’t just return — he dominated. With the roar of the crowd behind him, the 20-year-old blazed through the men’s 200m in 20.23 seconds, delivering a performance that was equal parts electric and emphatic.
“This season feels like catching up,” Tebogo said after his win. “But standing on that podium again reminds me that we’re exactly where we’re supposed to be. That was the goal — to finish strong and do justice to what we started in 2023.”
New Faces, New Records
While Tebogo’s win stirred national pride, the FNB Golden Prix wasn’t short on other standout moments. Seventeen-year-old South African Hanna Hope Vermaak stunned in the women’s 100m, clocking in at 11.44 seconds and edging out rising star Viwe Jingqi in a nail-biting finish.
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But it was Egyptian sprinter Basant Hemida who etched her name in the history books. Stepping into an event outside her usual lineup, Hemida broke the meet record in the women’s 400m, clocking an eye-popping 50.77 seconds.
“I honestly didn’t expect this,” Hemida said, beaming with disbelief. “The 400m isn’t my main event, but I’ve been training hard. Winning here after such a competitive race — it means everything.”
Simbine Makes His Mark
Another star who shone on the track was South Africa’s Akani Simbine, who stormed to victory in the men’s 100m, beating Kenyan speedster Ferdinand Omanyala. Simbine, known for his consistency and sheer power, credited the win to years of grit and commitment.
“This win is the result of staying focused and constantly pushing for improvement,” Simbine said. “Returning here and winning again means a lot — it’s proof that the work is paying off.”
For Botswana, the event was more than a race — it was a statement. As the country prepares to host the 2025 World Championships, Tebogo’s victory sent a clear message: Botswana isn’t just participating on the global stage — it’s ready to lead.
“I believe we’re ready,” Tebogo said, with a calm confidence. “The support we have from our people and our government — it’s something special. This is our moment, and we’re going to seize it.”
The FNB Golden Prix, now a crucial stop in the international athletics calendar, continues to grow in prestige and impact. But for fans in Gaborone, Saturday wasn’t just about medals or records. It was about pride, potential, and the belief that the future of global athletics just might run through Botswana.
