23 Jan 2019

Scores of motorbike sport fans, including Minister Tshekedi Khama, descended  on Sir Seretse Khama International Airport to  welcome Dakar Rally conquerer, Ross Branch on January 22.

The minister said there was need to redefine how other sporting codes are assisted with funding.

He said this in an interview at the welcoming ceremony of Dakar Rally 2019 rookie winner, Branch.

He noted that available funds were mostly channelled towards traditional sporting codes of football, netball and softball while other disciplines went unnoticed.

He further said he would consult with Botswana National Sports Council to establish how funds were appropriated and the criteria used.

He added that he wanted to establish if an individual, such as Branch, was allowed to seek funding to pursue his goals. He also applauded Branch for his achievements at the Dakar Rally.

“I am a big supporter of individual participation,” stated Khama, adding that there was a need to encourage Branch so that he could also share his experience and skills with other aspiring Batswana riders.

For his part, Branch said despite the bumpy ride he had at Dakar, he managed to achieve his goal of making it to the top 20.

He expressed hope of making the top 10 next year and winning a stage.

He also said he would compete a lot in local and regional races.

His fellow rider, Vincent Crosbie, who was Botswana’s first participant at the 2018 Dakar race, also applauded Branch on his achievement.

Crosbie said for Branch to have attained what he did was commendable, explaining that it was not easy to compete at the rally.

He advised young aspiring riders to follow their dreams. ENDS