Ghana’s teenage para-athletics sensation, Hayford Addai, has vowed to return stronger after narrowly missing out on a medal at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games despite producing a sensational lifetime best of 10.99 seconds in the men's 100m T47 final.
The 17-year-old finished fifth in a highly competitive race, shaving 0.10 seconds off his previous personal best of 11.09 seconds to become the first Ghanaian T47 sprinter to officially break the coveted 11-second barrier.
India’s Dilip Mahadu Gavit claimed gold ahead of compatriot Mohammed Basil Morssinganakath, while England’s Kevin Santos secured bronze at Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow.
Although disappointed to miss the podium, Addai remained optimistic about his future.
“Of course, I’m disappointed because every athlete dreams of winning a medal, and I believed I had a chance,” Addai told Graphic Sports shortly after the race.
“But I’m also grateful for the opportunity to compete against some of the world’s best. This experience has taught me many lessons, and I know it will make me a better athlete,” he said.
The young sprinter, who won gold at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix meetings in Dubai and Rabat earlier this year, said Glasgow had strengthened his determination to reach even greater heights.
“Breaking the 11-second barrier gives me confidence that I’m improving,” he said.
“My focus now is to qualify strongly for the World Para Athletics Championships and continue working hard towards the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. I don’t just want to qualify—I want to compete for medals and make Ghana proud.”
Addai reserved special appreciation for NPC Ghana President Samson Deen, whose support throughout his journey has been instrumental.
“I sincerely thank President Samson Deen for believing in me and supporting my development. His encouragement and the opportunities provided by NPC Ghana have helped me reach this stage,” the Konongo SHS student said.
“I promise him and all Ghanaians that I will continue to work hard, improve every season and make them proud in future international competitions,” Addai added.
The National Paralympic Committee Ghana, for its part, praised Addai’s performance, describing his historic sub-11-second run as another milestone for Ghanaian para-athletics.
Although Glasgow did not yield a medal, the teenager leaves Scotland with a national milestone and growing belief that he can challenge the world’s best on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
