Tokyo: Day seven of the Deaflympic Games in Tokyo proved difficult for Team Namibia, as the athletes continued to battle for form as the competition intensified in the 200-metre sprints.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Team Namibia, making its maiden appearance at the multi-sport event for deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes, is represented by 10 competitors - eight in track and field and two in judo. The 2025 Games are underway in the Japanese capital, with athletics events taking place at the Komazawa Olympic Park General Sports Ground.

On Friday, six of the eight track and field competitors lined up for the men's and women's 200m heats. However, with fiercely competitive fields in both categories, none of the Namibian athletes advanced to the next round.

In the women's heats, Shaye Haihambo finished last in her race, clocking 32.61 seconds. Her heat was won by Jan Elaine den Exter of the Netherlands in 25.69 seconds. Maria Filemon, who reacted slowly off the blocks, also placed last with 29.31 seconds, while Ndinelago Kanana ended at the back of her heat in 31.84 seconds. The fastest time across the three women's heats was recorded by France's Pamera Losange, who ran 25.69 seconds.

In the men's category, which featured a larger field spread across eight heats, only Elifas Nghikevali produced a promising performance. He finished fifth in his heat with a time of 23.71 seconds. Teammates Ndemuoongela Ekandjo and Nakare Munzere both finished last in their respective heats, clocking 24.78 seconds and 26.19 seconds, respectively.

Later on, Friday afternoon, Namibia's remaining athletes, Nghihupwamunhu Nambala and Shitaleni Ndinoti, were scheduled to compete in the 800m event as the team continued its quest for improved performances at its debut Deaflympics.

The Deaflympics started on 15 November and will conclude on 26 November 2025.