Despite not getting any podium finishes, Botswana was the talk of the IAAF World Champions 2017 held in London, England. The 13 strong team from southern African country Botswana, were strong contenders throughout the competitions. The athletes from the relatively unknown Southern African nation did put Botswana on the world map with their performances.
Botswana made the headlines due to the infamous Isaac Makwala incident. The 200m and 400m athlete made the headlines when he was barred from running the 400m finals due to ill-health, and then was made to run alone to qualify for the 200m final. His solo run and his subsequent push ups at the finish line, kickstarted a world craze dubbed the ‘Makwala Challenge’ which was trending on social media networks, with people mimicking his solo run, press ups and salute.
The team’s sterling performance was led by Nijel Amos qualifying for the 800m final, Baboloki Thebe in the 400m, Isaac Makwala in the 200m and the Women’s 4 by 400 metre relay team all made it through to the finals. Despite the lack of medals, the team improved on their times, with the women’s 4 by 400m relay team setting a new national record, and making a statement.
The athletes will now continue with the Diamond League, while Baboloki Thebe who was injured at the games, will go to Italy for treatment.