OUAGADOUGOU — Edmond Tapsoba and Hugues Fabrice Zango were honored with the prestigious Gold Stallion trophies on June 13, for their exceptional performances in football and triple jump, respectively. The ceremony, which highlighted the achievements of Burkinabè athletes in various disciplines, took place in Ouagadougou, celebrating both new and repeat champions in their fields.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the general commissioner of the 'Etalon en Or' awards, the event not only recognizes outstanding athletic achievements but also serves to inspire the younger generation of Burkinabè to excel and gain recognition on the global stage. For Tapsoba, a central defender with Bayer Leverkusen, this marked his first such accolade, while world champion Zango secured his second consecutive title, outperforming notable competitors like Iron Biby and Marthe Koala.

The event also included special awards for athletes who excelled in both their sports and community service. The Noufou Ouédraogo trophy for solidarity went to the Bertrand Traoré Foundation for its work with people in need, and Marthe Koala received the Burkindi trophy for her role in promoting Burkina Faso's stature on the international stage. Koala was recognized alongside other nominees including footballer Balkissa Sawadogo and bodybuilder Safoura Compaoré.

The ceremony further highlighted the broader contributions of Burkinabè athletes, with special prizes awarded to seven footballers who became champions in their respective leagues. A Stallions jersey was auctioned to raise funds for peace efforts, fetching 1 million FCFA from former player Bakari Koné, also known as General Bako.

Organizers of the event have committed to continuing this celebration of Burkinabè talent in future editions, underscoring the resilience and spirit of Burkina Faso despite ongoing challenges. Plans for the third edition of the Gold Stallion awards are already underway.