Tinaye Agere
Mukudzei Chingwere
ACTING President Dr Constantino Chiwenga this morning met the Zimbabwe Archery Team that participated at the recent Region 5 tournament held in Walvis Bay, Namibia, from August 22 to August 24.
The Zimbabwe Archery Team was represented by two squads at the competition, the national team and a developmental team, each consisting 16 archers.
The national team got bronze in the 3D category, while the development team finished third in the 3D animals category and had silver medals in the bulls’ eye event.
Acting President Chiwenga is familiar with Archery Sport, in his address to the archers he took them down memory lane telling them the origins of the games which initially emerged as a technique for hunting and then later for warfare before it evolved to become a sports code.
The Acting President challenged stakeholders to professionalise the sport and personally donated US$5 000 for the development of the archery sport.
He said it was his wish to see the team progressing and participating at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics, the Brisbane 2032 and future Olympics, among other international tournaments.
“Your impressive performance is a source of immense pride for our nation, and I commend each of you for your dedication, hard work and exceptional skill,” said Acting President Chiwenga.
“This tournament has not only highlighted Zimbabwe’s growing talent in archery, but has also ignited a passion and ambition for the future.
“I wish you the best in your future endeavors and look forward to witnessing even greater accomplishments in the years to come. Thank you for your hard work, your dedication and for representing Zimbabwe with such distinction on the international stage.”
He said in their journey to sports stardom they are not short of local inspirational figures, singling out Kirsty Coventry who was in the room – and the now Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation – a decorated Olympian who represented Zimbabwe with pride during her days.
Jonathan Howard, who won bronze in both the 3D and Bulls eye categories, winning gold for combined scores and securing an overall bronze, said his target now was a shot at the Olympics.
Team captains Musa Kurenzvi and Ivy Blue Nice were happy to be honoured by the visit to the Acting President, promising to do their best in future tournaments and carry the national flag higher.
Online Reporter