06 Apr 2026

When the country’s elite athletes are on track, the clock does not stand a chance. This emerged during the three day Orange Botswana Athletics National Championships where athletes pushed boundaries of human endurance and speed to clock new record.

The championships, held at the National Stadium had been so far the highlight of the local athletics calendar.

The 400 meters world champion, Collen Kebinatshipi was among the exceptional performers, producing a World Lead of 9.89 seconds in 100 meters, which was also a Stadium Record. Another highlight was in the 110 hurdles, where Kemorena Tisang clocked a new National Record of 13.81 seconds.

An icing on the cake was when two U20 athletes, Same Mhutsiwa clocked 24.29 seconds and Jack Newman recorded of 21.16 seconds in 200 meters, both qualifying for the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships scheduled for August 5 to 9 at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon, United States.

Even though Botswana is well known for its strength and dominance in the 400 meters, the 2026 championships has demystified the notion after a brilliance performance in the 200 meters senior men. Prince Selepe won a closely contested event in by 20.08 seconds, closely followed by Justice Oratile and Kevin Lobatlamang with 20.22 seconds, and 20.40 seconds respectively.

Coach Chilume Ntshwarang of Jwaneng Athletics and national team said the nationals were extra ordinary as athletes gave their all. “We have also seen good times in the 400 meters women final with more than three athletes recording Personal Best Times, and I am very happy with my team’s performance,” he said.

Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26 national team coach, Mogomotsi Otsetswe also commended athletes for doing well across all the events. “We have athletes who can now compete in the 4x100, 4x100 mixed and 4x400 meters in both men and women categories. I know the world will be focusing on our 4x400 men’s relays but we have a clear message for them, we have solid teams,” he said.

The event title sponsor, Orange Botswana was equally happy with overall standard of the event. Public Relations and Communications manager, Tebogo Nadisah said Orange Botswana was proud to stand behind the event as the title sponsor.

Nadisah said their role went beyond branding, as it was about supporting platforms that brought people together, celebrated talent and created opportunities.

“Orange is no stranger to the world of sport. Over the years, our brand has consistently backed platforms and talent that reflect the country’s spirit of excellence and ambition. This includes its partnership with Olympic Gold medalist Letsile Tebogo, whose achievements on the global stage continue to inspire new generations of athletes,” she said.. ENDS