In a disheartening development, the Ghana Athletics Association (GAA) has announced the regrettable withdrawal of Ghana’s men’s 4x100m relay team from the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Budapest.
The decision comes as a consequence of the unfortunate injuries sustained by two of the five athletes in the relay team, James Dadzie and Joseph Paul Amoah, during the 200-meter heats on August 23, 2023.
The Ghanaian relay squad comprised five athletes namely; Joseph Paul Amoah, Isaac Botsio, James Dadzie, Raymond French, and Edwin Kwabla Gadayi.
James Dadzie’s participation was abruptly halted around the 80-meter mark due to a hamstring injury, resulting in a grade II tear in the biceps femoris muscle of his left hamstring.
Joseph Paul Amoah, after showcasing an impressive performance in the 200m, experienced an unexpected pop sensation accompanied by sharp pain in the lateral front side of his right foot. Subsequent medical examinations revealed a small fracture at the base of his right big toe.
Given the importance accorded to the well-being of athletes by both World Athletics and the Ghana Athletics Association, the health and recovery of James and Joseph remain the primary concern.
In consultation with the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, the GAA has deemed it in the best interest of James and Joseph’s long-term careers to withdraw from the 4×100 metre heats scheduled for Friday, August 25, 2023. This decision aims to facilitate their timely access to medical treatment and allow them to focus on their recovery journey.
The Ghana Athletics Association in a statement extended its gratitude to all stakeholders for their support and requested that they rally behind the athletes, offering their prayers and well-wishes for a swift and complete recovery.
