Byo team faces further reduction

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
BULAWAYO province is yet to pay affiliation fees for their participation in the eighth edition of the Zimbabwe National Paralympics Games to be held in Gwanda from April 1-3.

Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) Bulawayo representative Sam Dzvimbu said although their technical side of preparations has been smooth, funding had been a major headache.

“We initially had settled for 123 athletes, but the figure was reduced to 100 as we realised that we might not be able to financially take care of the athletes. We now need at least $5,000 for affiliation fees, which we don’t have in our coffers,” said Dzvimbu.

He said the province has set a participatory budget of $20,000 and hinted at a further reduction in the size of Team Bulawayo.

“I, however, want to assure Bulawayo that we are going to do everything in our power to ensure our athletes are taken care of while in camp. In terms of travelling to Gwanda, we have so far secured a 25-seater bus and are also on the verge of getting a 75-seater bus,” said Dzvimbu.

He expressed confidence with their selection criteria that started from district level.

“This time we settled for athletes that are within national times, those we feel are medal hopefuls. Some of them I am certain can also make it into Team Zimbabwe for the Rio Paralympics 2016,” said Dzvimbu.

Team Bulawayo is set to go into camp at Eveline Girls High School soon after the Easter holiday.