15 Apr 2019

A fierce battle is expected  tomorrow (Tuesday)  in the 400 metres junior men final at  the Botswana Integrated Sports Association (BISA) and Botswana Primary Schools Sports Association (BOPSSA) third national athletics competitions in Francistown.

Bernard Olesitse from Southern zone, who has been dominating in the event is expected to be tested by the likes of McDonald Lekgowe from North Central zone, Kemo Gomang from South Central and Larona Mayana from North zone.

Olesitse said he was cognizant of the fact that he was facing a tough battle, but said his dominance of the 400 metres was not a fluke. He said  he was prepared to give his opponents a run for their money.

He said he was under no pressure and his mission was to execute his race plan and win a gold medal.

“My opponents should expect a fierce battle from me, I have been competing with them, I know their strengths and weaknesses. Remember I was supposed to go and compete in Abidjan but the trip did not materialise, so I am here to show spectators, the best of Bernard,” he said.

 For his part, Lekgowe said he was fully prepared for the race, adding that his mission was to improve his time, so that he could qualify for international events.

He said should his legs and body respond, then spectators should expect a very big surprise from him.

“Honestly I am here to compete, not to participate, so anything is possible, let’s see at the end of the race as to what will happen,” he said.

Gomang said he was equally prepared for the final, adding that the plan was to finish at the podium.

“Finishing at the podium means going all out, and don’t be surprised if I hit the finish line first, anything is possible,” he said.

He said he was aware that Olesitse was the 400-metre favourite  but he was prepared to cause an upset.

Mayana said he did not prepare well due to injury, but said he was aware of the strong lineup, adding that  spectators should expect a surprise.

“I am not going to give anybody respect on the track, and I am going to just enjoy the race, the rest will follow,” he said.The 400 metres junior men final will be at 11:55 a.m, followed by the mouthwatering 400 metres senior men clash at midday. BOPA