In a disappointing display at the World University Games in China, Somalia faced criticism for fielding an inexperienced 100m sprinter. Nasra Abubakar Ali, who had no previous top-level competition experience, took more than twice as long as the winner to complete the race, finishing in 21.81 seconds. This incident has prompted calls for officials to be sacked and has brought embarrassment to the Somali people.
Sports Minister Mohamed Barre Mohamud issued an apology, stating that the selection of Nasra was not representative of the Somali people. The lack of experience in the chosen athlete has raised questions about the selection process and the competence of the government. Social media users expressed their disappointment and frustration, emphasizing the negative impact this incident has on the international perception of their country.
The Association of Somali Universities denied appointing any athlete to compete in the event and announced that an investigation will be launched by the Somali Athletics Federation to determine how Nasra Abubakar Ali was selected. This is not the first time Somalia has faced controversy regarding their choice of athletes for international competitions. In the 2016 Rio Olympics, Maryan Nuh Muse recorded a sluggish time of 1.10.14 in the 400m event, significantly slower than the average time of around 48 seconds.
Despite the disappointment, some praised the runner for her courage in participating and defying the challenging conditions faced by Somali women involved in high-level sports. The story sheds light on the struggles these female athletes endure, as some in Somalia still hold the belief that women should not be allowed to participate in sports. In fact, Zamzam Mohamed Farah, a Somali Olympic runner, received death threats during the 2012 London Olympics due to her participation.
The incident at the World University Games highlights the need for improved athlete selection processes and the importance of providing opportunities and support for aspiring athletes in Somalia. While the performance was undoubtedly disappointing, it should serve as a catalyst for positive changes within the Somali sports community. By addressing the flaws in the selection system and investing in training and development programs, Somalia can work towards better representation on the international stage and empower more athletes, especially women, to pursue their sporting dreams.
Furthermore, this incident raises questions about the overall state of sports governance in Somalia. It is crucial for the government to prioritize the development of sports infrastructure, provide funding, and establish structured training programs. By doing so, they can ensure that talented athletes are identified and nurtured from a young age, ensuring a more competitive representation in future international events.
The Somali sports community now faces the challenge of rebuilding its reputation and gaining the trust of its people. Transparency and accountability should be at the forefront of any investigation into the athlete selection process, ensuring that such a mishap does not occur again. Additionally, measures should be put in place to protect and support athletes who face opposition from conservative elements within the society.
