Tiger poised to pounce at Paralympics

Portia Mlilo
FINAL SHOWDOWN: Masuge

The pursuit for further sporting glory on the international stage continues in Tokyo on Thursday (2 August) morning as 21-year-old Edwin Masuge lines up in the men’s T13 400m final at the Paralympic Games.

The race is scheduled for 09:54hrs so fans will want to set their alarms nice and early.

Nicknamed ‘Tiger’, Masuge will be looking to pounce on a top three finish having cruised through to the Gold Medal race as the fourth fastest athlete.

- Advertisement -

Ranked 11th in the world, the Moshupa native was in the form of his life in Wednesday’s semi-final, clocking a personal best time of 50.13 to qualify for the final.

Southern Africa will be well represented in the race, with Namibia’s Johannes Nambala one of the favourites for a medal.

12 hours after Masuge’s shot at gold and glory, it will be Gloria Majaga’s turn to take to the track in the women’s 400m T13 semifinals, with the starter’s gun going off at 21:37hrs.

BIG EXPECTATIONS: Majaga
BIG EXPECTATIONS: Majaga

The 20-year-old Francistown-born runner has a great chance of qualifying for Saturday’s final, at least according to Head Coach, Katlego Mason Maotwe.

“I expect her to get through. Gloria is committed, her training went well and she is ready for the race,” declared Maotwe, adding he was proud off both athletes for how well they have coped with the stifling hot conditions in Japan.

Looking ahead to Masuge’s Gold medal chances, the Athletics coach said running twice in two days should not be a factor for the fit young man.

- Advertisement -

“Before the semi, I told him to remain calm and run his race. He has competed in the international events before and knows what to expect. I am very impressed by his performance. He is a strong athlete, very confident on the track and I am hoping for a podium finish. He will have enough time to rest and prepare for the final!”

Leave a comment