Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SPORT, Recreation, Arts and Culture deputy minister Emily Jesaya says Zimbabwe must keep hosting international competitions if local athletes are to grow and compete at a higher level.
Speaking at the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup and Multi-sport Festival awards ceremony at Troutbeck on Saturday night, Jesaya said events that attract global athletes give Zimbabwean competitors rare exposure and a chance to measure themselves against world-class opposition.
This year’s competition drew athletes from Austria, Mauritius, South Africa, the Czech Republic, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Germany, Japan, Ireland and Zimbabwe.
Jesaya said the presence of international competitors showed that Zimbabwe can stage top competitions while also creating opportunities for local athletes. “Through global sporting platforms such as this, Zimbabwe continues to show that it is capable and welcoming and ready to host world class competitions,” she said.
“Equally important is the development impact on triathlon in Zimbabwe. The opportunity for our athletes to compete alongside some of the best triathletes in the world gives them exposure, inspiration and experience.”
Zimbabwe fielded athletes in the elite women race and the Africa Triathlon Junior Cup men.
One of the highlights for the hosts came from Rachel O’Donoghue, who marked her debut in the elite women category with a bronze medal.
She completed the demanding course of a 750 metre swim, 20.3 kilometre cycle and 5 kilometre run in 1 hour 14 minutes 29 seconds.
Germany’s Jule Behrens won the race in 1 hour 10 minutes 54 seconds while Japan’s Himeka Sato finished second in 1 hour 11 minutes 38 seconds.
Zimbabwe also celebrated success in the junior men event where Zander Botha won gold while compatriot Callum Smith claimed silver.
Smith said the result meant a lot as he is still recovering from a hip injury.
“I raced hard and got a podium finish which was my main goal,” he said.
“My run was affected because of the injury. It doesn’t affect my swimming and biking which helped me stay in front for most of the race. I lost ground on the run but that’s okay. Competition was very tough.”
Schweppes Zimbabwe managing director Stanley Muchenje said their Bonaqua brand remains committed to the competition after more than a decade of sponsorship.
“This is the 12th consecutive year Bonaqua has proudly sponsored this event and we are honoured to be associated with Triathlon Zimbabwe,” said Muchenje.
“Over the past decade our partnership has helped grow triathlon into one of the most respected endurance competitions on the African continent.
“It has inspired new athletes, encouraged young people to take up sport and placed Zimbabwe on the international triathlon map.”
The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup is sanctioned by Africa Triathlon and World Triathlon and offers world ranking points that contribute towards Olympic qualification.
