Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe will break away from tradition as they are set to host the national cross-country championships in November in preparation of the 2026 World event scheduled for January.
The national event serves as a selection platform for athletes to represent the country at the World Cross Country Championships.
Next year’s edition comes early, with the competition due to take place on January 10 in Tallahassee in Florida, USA.
Usually, the world event is held between February and March, and as a result local competitions take off in January with provincial events building up to the national championships.
With the next edition of the World Cross Country Championships set for January, the national event is scheduled for November 22 in Bindura.
NAAZ competitions director Manuel Mpofu confirmed the development.
“The fact is the World Cross Country Championships will be held in January that’s why we are having ours in November, so that we have time to sort out the paperwork for those that are travelling.
“Normally when it’s done in March or February, we have our nationals in February. But this time because it will held early next year, that is January 10, we have decided to have ours earlier so that we select our team.
“Provinces will have their own provincials to select their participants for the national event,” said Mpofu.
In 2024 Zimbabwe were represented by Wellington Varevi in the senior men category, in Serbia, having won the national competition.
Mpofu, said the national event is designed to mirror international demands and identify athletes ready for the global stage.
“We are looking for athletes who can read the course, respond to pace changes, and finish with authority. Strong performances in Bindura will form the backbone of Team Zimbabwe for Tallahassee.”
The senior men and women compete in 10km, while Under-20 men will be up for 8km and the women battle it out in 6km.
Under-18 men and women take part in the 6km and 4km races respectively.
The programme will also include the Under-12 boys and girls (1km), and Under 16 boys and girls (2km) as well as a 2km race for 40 years and above men and women.
“From Under-12s to seniors and masters, the programme shows our pipeline in action. We expect competitive racing and smart tactics across every category.”
