Botswana Claims Historic 4x400m Relay Gold, US Dominates Women’s Event

Botswana made history on March 17, 2024, by winning the men’s world 4×400 metres relay in challenging weather conditions during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The team edged out the United States and South Africa in a thrilling finish, marking the first time an African nation has claimed the title in this event.

The final was set against a backdrop of heavy rain, which created a slippery track for the athletes. The United States, who had narrowly qualified for the final by defeating Kenya in a runoff earlier that day, entered the final changeover with the lead. However, Botswana’s Collen Kebinatshipi, the individual 400m champion, delivered a remarkable performance. He completed his leg in 2 minutes, 57.76 seconds, securing gold for Botswana.

The United States, having made a complete change of their lineup from the morning runoff, finished just behind Botswana. They took silver with a time of 2:57.83, only two thousandths of a second ahead of South Africa, who also recorded the same time. This finish underscores the tight competition and the extraordinary performances from all three teams.

In the women’s 4x400m relay that followed, the United States resumed their dominance. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the individual 400m champion, anchored her team to victory with a time of 3:16.61. The American squad started the race neck-and-neck with Jamaica, but Lynna Irby-Jackson provided a powerful second leg that gave her team a significant lead. The lead was extended by her teammates, securing a comfortable win.

Jamaica finished in second place with a time of 3:19.25, while the Netherlands, led by 400m hurdles gold medallist Femke Bol, claimed third in 3:20.18. The contrasting outcomes in the men’s and women’s relays highlight the competitive landscape of track and field as nations vie for supremacy on the global stage.

Both races not only showcased the talents of individual athletes but also the collaborative spirit of relay racing, where teamwork is essential. Botswana’s historic win will be celebrated as a significant milestone in their athletic history, while the United States continues to assert its dominance in women’s track events.