News

A total of six University of Botswana Taekwondo athletes received gold medals at the 2nd University of Botswana Taekwondo Open Championship - 2023 held at UB Indoor Sports Centre on October 7, 2023.

Gold medallists were Katlego Gaebolae, Pako Rameno, Keletso Akanyang, Kesego Phuwe, Karabo Tlotleng and Precious Mogomotsi. UB Taekwondo team also won nine silver medals and eleven bronze medals. The athletes were divided into age categories. The championships also attracted teams from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho and Swaziland.

Giving welcome remarks, UB Sports and Recreation Manager, Mr Nelson Bodilenyane, expressed gratitude that a large number of young athletes were keen on sports and support the idea of fair play, equal opportunities, volunteering and education through sport fostered by Botswana Taekwondo Federation.

He said the 2nd UB Taekwondo event gave the young athletes the opportunity to test their athletic skills and felt a part of the Taekwondo sport community at UB, Botswana and southern Africa. He noted that participation of teams served as a common goal of uniting cultures through sport and advertising the power of mind, body and will.

For his part, UB Taekwondo President, Mr Jan Su Kim, appreciated UB Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation’s commitment towards supporting and building Taekwondo in the country. He encouraged the athletes to perform to their level best, respecting the rules as well as competing in a fair play manner.

On the other hand, Botswana National Olympic Committee President, Colonel Botsang Tshenyego appreciated UB for allowing young athletes to gain exposure by learning from senior Taekwondo athletes as well as appreciating the culture of the sport. He welcomed the support of the parents towards the development of their children in sports.