03 May 2022

An agent of a famous Italian-based company that manages athletes graced the Gaborone International Meet (GIM) on Saturday to scout for talent.

Stefano Gugusi of Rosa Associati Management said they managed athletes from all over the world. He noted that some of the athletes under their management included Nijel Amos,

Letsile Tebogo, Ivorian Marie Josse Lou Ta, Kenyan Beatrice Chebet and Ethiopian Aberash Minsewo.

He also noted that Amantle Montsho was the first athlete from Botswana to be signed by his stable in 2014.

He, however, said they had parted ways with Baboloki Thebe because of poor results, saying athletes had to perform to attract sponsors.

“When you have a sponsorship from a sports shoes company you have to perform well to be paid,” he said, adding that ‘its normal.’

He said the country had talent which needed to be properly nurtured to become world beaters.

He singled out the men’s 400 metres relay team that won bronze in Tokyo, Japan. He said it was a clear indication that local athletics could compete with the best in the world.

He also praised Botswana coaches for identifying and grooming talent. He promised that they would continue to support the country and athletes.

He also said he was happy that Letsile has managed to break the world under 20 record after running 9.96 seconds to smash the 2014 record set by American Trayvon Bromell.

He said he was informed that it would be impossible for Letsile to run an impressive time at the National Stadium because it had a slow track. “I was shocked and happy to see him clocking 9.96 and it is a clear indication that Botswana has talent,” he said. He added that it showed that the athlete was capable of running better in a good track.

Gugusi also said he was confident that the country would win medals at the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024.

In other issues, Gugusi also donated spikes to athletes. He advised them to travel to Europe and to compete in different competitions. ENDS