Weekly Round Up: African Athletes Shine in Doha as BAL Wraps Up Sahara Conference

Welcome to this week’s round-up, brought to you by ProTouch Africa’s Podium Pursuit!

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The global sports stage witnessed a spectacular showcase of African talent as athletes from the continent dominated the recent events in Doha and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Sahara Conference. From record-breaking performances to historic achievements, African athletes left an indelible mark on the sporting landscape

Giro d’Italia

Stage 2 of the Giro d’Italia showcased Eritrean cyclist Henok Mulubrahn’s impressive return to form, securing a Top 20 finish in his first major tour since recovering from a collarbone injury. The following day’s Stage 3 brought further pride to Eritrea as Biniam Girmay achieved a remarkable Top 3 position. However, Stage 4 brought a devastating turn of events as Girmay, the previous day’s third-place finisher, encountered misfortune on a treacherous descent, crashing out of the race with an injury approximately 62 kilometers from the finish line. This unfortunate incident served as a harsh reminder of the challenges Girmay has faced, notably his previous injury during the 2022 Giro caused by a celebratory champagne cork mishap. As the cycling community reflects on Girmay’s resilience and the unpredictability of the sport, well wishes are extended to all athletes as they prepare for the challenges of Stage 10.

Photo Credit: Wanda Diamond League

Diamond League: Doha

Doha witnessed a remarkable display of African athleticism at the Diamond League event on Friday, May 10, 2024. Mary Moraa showcased her strategic prowess once again in the women’s 800 meters, securing victory with a tactical masterclass. Joining her on the podium was Noelie Yarigo from Benin, who claimed a well-deserved third place. In the fiercely contested 100-meter women’s sprint, Freweyni Hailu triumphed for Ethiopia, accompanied by compatriot Nelly Chepchirchir from Kenya.

The 5000-meter women’s race showcased African dominance, with the entire Top 10 comprised of African athletes. Beatrice Chebet of Kenya seized the top position, setting a new World Lead, while Ejgayehu Taye and Medina Eisa, both from Ethiopia, secured second and third places respectively.

In the men’s events, Muzala Samukonga from Zambia clinched second place in the 400 meters, followed closely by Leungo Scotch from Botswana in third. The 1500-meter men’s category witnessed an all-Kenyan podium, with Brian Komen claiming the top spot, Timothy Cheruiyot securing second place, and Reynold Kipkorir Cheruiyot taking the third position.

The 3000-meter steeplechase event also saw African dominance, with Samuel Firewu from Ethiopia crossing the finish line in first place. He was followed by Abraham Ibiwot from Kenya in second place, while Getnet Wale, another Ethiopian, completed the all-African podium by securing the third spot.

Photo Credit: The BAL

Basketball Africa League: Sahara Conference comes to a close

The Sahara Conference of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) concluded with an electrifying weekend of intense competition as teams vied for a spot in the final round later this month. Rivers Hoopers emerged victorious, claiming the top position and securing a well-deserved first place. AS Douanes showcased their prowess by clinching second place, earning themselves an automatic ticket to the Finals in Kigali. Despite finishing third, US Monastir still advances to the next stage as one of the top two third-ranked teams across all conferences. Unfortunately, APR’s journey in the Playoffs race comes to an end as they are eliminated from contention. Stay updated with all the action of the upcoming Finals from May 24th to June 1st by downloading the Podium Pursuit app and following our BAL Blog for the latest updates and insights.

Rugby Africa Women’s Cup 2024

At this past weekend’s Africa Women’s Cup, South Africa’s women’s team showcased their dominance by securing victory against Madagascar, thereby clinching the tournament title. With this win, South Africa’s women’s side also earned the coveted qualification for next year’s World Cup, marking a significant achievement in their rugby journey. Meanwhile, in another thrilling match, Kenya squared off against Cameroon, emerging victorious with a commanding 39-17 win. These exciting matchups underscore the growing competitiveness and talent within women’s rugby across the continent, promising an exciting future for the sport in Africa.

The extraordinary accomplishments of African athletes on the world stage signify more than just sporting prowess; they embody resilience, determination, and Africa’s illustrious athletic legacy. With every triumph and record shattered, these athletes inspire generations, blazing a trail for a brighter future in sports.

Stay connected with our weekly roundups by downloading the Podium Pursuit App, and join us as we celebrate the ongoing success of African athletes and their profound impact on the global sporting landscape.

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It is pioneering new ways for fans to interact and engage with their favourite teams, leagues, and athletes and enable alternative revenue streams.

ProTouch Africa’s Podium Pursuit Project is focused on creating a transparent and sustainable funding mechanism for the next generation of African Athletes. Its vision is to launch the World’s first fan-owned impact investment platform for African Athletes in 2024 by assembling an ecosystem of top-performing athletes, their fans, and the brands that support them.