Suzhou Diamond League wraps up an epic week of sport

Photo credit: Luke Howard for Diamond League AG

The past week has been nothing short of spectacular for Africa’s sporting scene, as athletes from various disciplines showcased their immense talent and determination on the global stage. From the Suzhou Diamond League to the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and the ASA Marathon Championships.

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Diamond League: Suzhou/Shanghai 

The Suzhou Diamond League witnessed awe-inspiring feats by African athletes, highlighting their dominance and skill in track and field events. Ethiopia’s Selemon Barega set a new meeting record and season best in the men’s 5000m, clocking an impressive 12:55.68 to claim gold. 

Meanwhile, Kenyan sensation Beatrice Chepkoech displayed her prowess in the women’s 3000mSCm, securing victory with a powerful 9:07.36 finish.

In the men’s 800m, Slimane Moula from Africa powered through with a time of 1:44.55, setting a new season best and clinching the gold. Burkina Faso’s Marthe Koala leapt to victory in the women’s Long Jump, covering a distance of 6.68m and setting a new season best. 

South Africa’s Akani Simbine blazed down the track in the men’s 100m, claiming gold with a time of 10.01 and establishing a new season best.

Basketball Africa League (BAL): Nile Conference 

The Nile Conference of the Basketball Africa League unfolded in Cairo, Egypt, showcasing intense matchups and thrilling basketball action. Al Ahly emerged as the frontrunner, securing the top position in the rankings, followed closely by Al Ahly Ly, who solidified their standing with a better head-to-head point differential.

While Bangui SC remains in contention for the BAL Playoffs, the journey ended for Uganda’s City Oilers, who concluded their campaign at the bottom of the standings. The upcoming Sahara Conference results will determine the fate of teams vying for playoff berths, adding anticipation and excitement to the league’s narrative.

ASA Marathon Championships

In Durban, South Africa, the ASA Marathon Championships unfolded with a display of remarkable endurance and determination. Elroy Gelant claimed victory in the men’s race, clocking a time of 2:09:32, followed closely by Mathew Leeto and Motlagale Tumelo securing second and third place, respectively.

The women’s race saw Cian Oldknow emerge victorious with a time of 2:29:46, showcasing immense strength and resilience. Jenna Challenor and Banele Mabizela secured second and third place, contributing to a compelling showcase of athleticism and grit.

Rhythmic Gymnastics Africa Championships
In Kigali, Rwanda, the Rhythmic Gymnastics Africa Championships unfolded, highlighting the grace, skill, and artistry of gymnasts from Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Tunisia. Egypt’s dominance was evident as they clinched multiple gold medals across team events and individual categories.

The Senior events witnessed Egypt’s gymnasts securing gold in the Team Event and dominating the All-Around individual and group finals. In the Junior events, Egypt continued their stellar performance, claiming gold in team events and individual categories, showcasing their depth of talent and dedication to rhythmic gymnastics.

Overall, Africa’s sporting triumphs across these diverse disciplines reflect the continent’s rich athletic heritage and the incredible potential of its athletes on the global stage.

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