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University of Botswana (UB) Foundation, in collaboration with key stakeholders, celebrated the Wilson Theleso 50km Walk Legacy Project on the 11th of July 2025. The initiative was aimed at raising funds to launch a legacy sports development programme in Theleso’s home village of Thamaga, where aspiring athletes will be trained and supported. A renowned Olympian, Theleso began his walk in Thamaga and concluded the journey at the National Stadium in Gaborone.

UB Foundation took part in the project to reinforce the University’s commitment to promoting youth and sports development while also creating interest for the upcoming UB Marathon scheduled for the 7th of September 2025. In addition, UB joined the walk to support Theleso, who is a member of the Senior Citizens Club hosted at UB sports facilities which aims to enhance the physical, mental and social well-being of older adults.

One of Botswana’s most celebrated marathon runners, Theleso has proudly represented the country in various prestigious international competitions and is set to participate in the upcoming UB Marathon. Even after retiring from competitive running, Theleso continues to serve the sport with dedication particularly as a technical official, mentoring many local athletes and officials through his extensive practical experience.

He represented Botswana at the 1983 IAAF World Championships in Helsinki, finishing 41st with a time of 2:21:36. At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games, he placed 55th in the marathon with a time of 2:29:20. He also competed at the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games, securing 20th place with a time of 2:23:10.

In his remarks, Theleso expressed gratitude and joy for the support shown by stakeholders. He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting sports and nurturing athletes in Thamaga and surrounding villages, emphasising his desire to share his valuable knowledge and experience with the youth. He explained that youth sports development was essential for shaping well-rounded individuals and creating opportunities for them to compete at national and even international levels.

Botswana Defence Force (BDF) Major General, Molefi Seikano, indicated that Theleso’s career as an athlete dated back to 1979 as a soldier in the BDF before his retirement. He applauded Theleso for his unwavering dedication towards youth and sports development in Botswana.

Major General, Molefi Seikano observed that his contribution towards sports and legacy would inspire upcoming the generation of athletes. He added that sports training was essential for national development, building character, naturing talent and uniting people across regions. Theleso is set to contribute his expertise to the training of athletes at the UB High-Performance Centre (HPC).