Ghanaian sprinters have kicked off their campaign at the 2023 African Games on a promising note, with both male and female athletes delivering impressive performances in the first round of the 100m event and securing semifinal berths.
In the men’s category, Benjamin Azamati, Ansah Sarfo, and Barnabas Aggerh demonstrated their prowess on the track, advancing to the semifinals with strong performances.
Despite finishing fourth in heat 1 behind Eseme Emmanuel Alobwede of Cameroon (10.19s) and Itskiri Usheoritse of Nigeria (10.19s), with Bibi Gary Noa Jerrel from Mauritius taking third place (10.28 seconds), Ansah Sarfo’s time of 10.34s was sufficient to secure him a spot in the semifinals. Furthermore, Sarfo’s time proved to be the best among the other two Ghanaian male athletes who also advanced.
Barnabas Aggerh with 10.46s came second in heat 2 behind Cameroonian Itoungue Bongogne Claude Emmanuel who finished first with a time of 10.37s.
Celebrated sprinter Benjamin Azamati finished first in heat 5 with a time of 10.54s, outpacing Nigeria’s Ibrahim Israel Sunday Okon and Masasa Thuto of Botswana.
Benjamin Azamati finishes first in the 100m heat 5 with a time of 10.54s.#3SportsGH #Accra2023 pic.twitter.com/itoYB22mg7
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) March 18, 2024
On the women’s side, Hor Halutie, Benedict Kwartemaa, and Mary Boakye showcased remarkable performances to secure their spots in the semifinals.
Halutie Hor, Mary Boakye, and Benedicta Kwartemaa have all qualified to the semis of the females 100m heats.
🇬🇠#3SportsGH #Accra2023 pic.twitter.com/NXkTv1w5xE
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) March 18, 2024
Hor Halutie in heat 1 finished second with 11.69s to qualify.
Despite finishing fifth in heat 2 with a time of 11.95s, Benedict Kwartemaa narrowly advanced to the semifinals. Her time was later confirmed as one of the fastest losers, securing her a spot in the next round of the competition.
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Mary Boakye also came second in heat 3 with 11.50s, the best time among the Ghanaian female sprinters to also make it to the next round as they all set sights on a medal for Team Ghana.
With all eyes set on medals for Team Ghana, the athletes are gearing up for the semifinals, which are scheduled to take place later on Monday at 5:30 pm local time at the University of Ghana stadium.