By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
The Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC) has officially endorsed a national awareness campaign in support of Mamakoli Senauoana as she embarks on a 10-day mission to qualify for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Senauoana, who has taken the regional athletics circuit by storm this season, has been rewriting the Lesotho national record at a blistering pace. Already a three-time record breaker in the 400m event this year alone, she clocked her personal best at 52.31 seconds — a national milestone that still leaves her under two minutes shy of the World Championships’ automatic qualifying mark of 50.75 seconds.
However, all hope is far from lost. The global qualification system allows for 19 additional entries based on world rankings. These are calculated using athletes’ top five performances in recognised events. As it stands, Senauoana is ranked 112th globally with a score of 1083 points. Though the target is steep, LNOC remains optimistic that with a few strong showings, her path could flow well enough for her to clinch one of those desirable ranking spots.
The statement issued by LNOC expressed full support for Senauoana and the Federation of Athletics Lesotho.
The remaining days are vital. Senauoana is scheduled to compete in three key meets: the AGN Open League in Pretoria last Saturday, the ACNW League 9 in Potchefstroom yesterday, and the ACNW League 10 again in Potchefstroom on May 24. These races represent her final chances to improve her times and ranking before the qualification window closes.
What makes her campaign particularly compelling is the timing — as global athletics eyes are starting to turn towards Tokyo, athletes across the world are jockeying for position. In this high-stakes environment, every millisecond counts.
LNOC also underscores the broader significance of this effort, pointing to the role of international representation in inspiring future athletes.
As the clock ticks toward her first starting gun, the nation watches — hopeful, proud, and united behind their star. Whether she crosses the qualification beginning or not, Senauoana has already claimed her place in the hearts of a nation and is well on her way to becoming a leader in Basotho athletics.
This is more than just a qualification journey. It is a message to every young boy and girl in Lesotho that with talent and tenacity, the world stage is within reach. Tokyo may be the destination, but her journey is already a victory.