Moroccan athlete Rachid M'hamdi has claimed the gold medal in the 400 meters on Wednesday in Riyadh, during the athletics events of the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games currently underway in the city. M'hamdi's triumphant run saw him complete the distance in 45.40 seconds. Hot on his heels, Emirati athlete Emmanuel Bamidele secured the silver with a time of 45.71 seconds, just edging out Nigerian competitor Gafari Atanda Badmus, who also clocked 45.71 seconds, in a dramatic photo finish to take the bronze. Speaking to the press, M'hamdi expressed his pride in representing Morocco at this prestigious event, while also commending the Royal Moroccan Athletics Federation and the Moroccan National Olympic Committee for their unwavering support of Moroccan athletes. He described the race as fiercely competitive, particularly in the last 50 meters, but credited his victory to rigorous training and thorough preparation, which enabled him to clinch the win in the final moments. With this victory, Morocco's medal count rises to 22, comprising 10 gold, 4 silver, and 8 bronze, securing the country the 8th spot in the provisional overall standings.
