Ghana Athletics has officially announced the withdrawal of the men’s 4x100m relay team from the ongoing 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest.
The decision comes as a result of injuries sustained by two of the relay team members, James Dadzie and Joseph Paul Amoah, during the 200-meter heats. The injuries were deemed significant and necessitated immediate medical attention.
In a statement, Ghana Athletics expressed their deep regret regarding the situation and emphasised their priority on safeguarding the health and well-being of the athletes. The statement read: “Unfortunately, two of the five athletes on the relay, James Dadzie and Joseph Paul Amoah, sustained injuries during the 200-meter heats today, August 23, 2023, that require urgent medical care.”
James Dadzie experienced a hamstring injury about 80 meters into the race, resulting in a grade II tear in the bicep femoris muscle of his left hamstring. On the other hand, Joseph Paul Amoah encountered sudden pain in the lateral front side of his right foot, accompanied by a pop sensation after running a strong curve in the 200m. An x-ray scan subsequently revealed a small fracture at the base of his right big toe.
The statement further mentioned the collaboration with the Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, in making the decision. “In consultation with the Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, GA firmly believes that it’s in the best interest and greater good of James and Joseph’s careers to discontinue participation in the championships given the circumstances and to shift focus to support options for treatment.”
Team Ghana hasn’t won a medal in Budapest.
