Zambian sprinter, Samukonga, races to new national record, qualifies for 400m final at Paris 2024 Olympics

Zambian sprinter, Muzala Samukonga, has made history by qualifying for the final of the men’s 400m race at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Samukonga achieved this milestone by setting a new personal best and national record with a time of 43.81 seconds in the semi-finals, held at the iconic Stade de France.

This remarkable performance not only secured Samukonga a place in the final but also made him the first Zambian athlete to reach the finals of any sport at the Olympics since the 1996 Atlanta Games.

His finish in the semi-final was particularly impressive, as he crossed the line in second place, ensuring his qualification for the final round.

Grenadian sprinter Kirani James, who won the semi-final heat, clocked a time of 43.78 seconds, just three hundredths of a second faster than Samukonga.

Despite this narrow margin, Samukonga’s time stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and preparation.

Samukonga’s final race is scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 21:20 hrs Zambia time. This will be a significant moment for Zambian athletics as the nation awaits to see how Samukonga fares in the final.

In a heartfelt post on his Facebook page, Samukonga expressed his gratitude and joy for the achievement.

“Through to the Men’s 400m finals with a new NATIONAL RECORD 43.81s. Thank you very much, heavenly father; I’ll forever be grateful,” he wrote.

The entire nation had been eagerly anticipating his performance in the final, hoping for a stellar result that could bring further glory to Zambia.

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