01 Aug 2017

Botswana injured runner, Boitumelo Masilo arrived home on Monday evening from London.

Masilo was to be part of the men’s 4x 400 metres relay member, at the IAAF World Championships, but got injured during the team’s training camp in Cardiff.

His slot has since been filled by another 800 metre ace runner, Nijel Amos who recently recorded a very impressive time in 400m.

However, Masilo said in an interview that after assessment, it was found that he had a quad injury, adding that the decision was then made for him to come back home for treatment.

He however said although he was disappointed that he would not be part of the team that was likely to make history by wining a relay medal at the Championships, he was resolute that his teammate would definitely deliver.

“You see, injuries and sport are intertwined and it is something that athletes really don’t have control over, injuries are the most enemy in sport,” he said.

Masilo said although his injury had affected his team-mates, at the end they would have to accept and soldier on, given that the main focus is to make the country proud.Furthermore, he said according to him, the athletes would make the country proud at the competition, adding that the moral in camp was high and they were all looking forward for  Saturday, when the heats started in different events.

Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) spokesperson, Ipolokeng Ramatshaba said they were equally disappointed that an injury had denied Masilo to prove his mettle.

He however said they had already arranged with the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) for the athlete’s treatment.

Ramatshaba said he was confident that those remaining in London would focus and ultimately bring medals home.

The relay team is now made of Baboloki Thebe, Isaac Makwala, Karabo Sibanda, Onkabetse Nkobolo, Leaname Maotoanong and Nijel Amos.

Meanwhile, Amantle Montsho is the only Botswana athlete who has ascended to the podium at the World Championships.

In 2011, she won her first gold medal in Dageu and in 2013, she represented the country at Moskva where she won a silver with a time of 49.41. ENDS