23 Jul 2018

Baboloki Thebe has moved to position eight in the Diamond League standing, after finishing fourth  at the London Diamond League Meet on July 21.

Thebe, who recorded a Season Best time of 44.54, needs to finish on top four in Birmingham Diamond League meet to be held on August 18.

He missed the finals last season due to an injury he sustained at the World Championships, after dominating the circuit.

Of late, Thebe has been struggling on track but on July 21, he got his race plan right despite running from lane nine, which is perceived as a dangerous lane as athletes are not able to see their opponents.

Thebe said in an interview that he was happy that he managed to finish the race healthy and clocked a sub 45, something that he had been longing for.

After missing the Rabat Diamond League due to  a slight knock, he said his plan in the London race was to finish on top four so as to keep his dreams of qualifying for the finals a reality.

“I think this time I ran well, and I am happy with my time. I have been wondering if I will ever be able to record a sub 45. So I am now left with only one race to make it. I pray that I remain injury free so that I can qualify,” he said.

Furthermore, he said the London race gave him a clear indication that he can go all the way, given that he was scheduled to defend his African Championship title in Asaba, Nigeria in August.

Track and field analyst, Billy Tambula said Thebe took off well maintaining a more comfortable pace despite running blind.

He said despite the fact that Grenada athlete, Kiran James appeared on his sight too early, he remained composed and never panicked.

Tambula said Thebe’s 300 metres was steady allowing him to reserve more energy for the home stretch.

Furthermore, he said the athlete was very strong in the last 100 metres as he managed to beat some of the athletes who had gone very hard on the first lap of the race.

“The fact that Thebe enjoyed  his race without any pressure was impressing and he is a  consistent runner, and chances are that he may run another sub 45 in the  remaining race,” he said. ENDS