adminThe junior side athletics team has sent 13 athletes who are also going to use the platform to prepare for the impending World Athletics Championships to be held in Ukraine in July.
Of the 13 junior athletes taking part, three have already qualified for the Ukraine World Championships. The three include Daniel Chidavaenzi, Mikel Songare and Yvonne Vanhuvaone (all aged 17).
Zimbabwe Junior Athletics coach Silas Muringani said the team is geared to give a competitive performance in Botswana and they will get the support from the senior team.
“We have a fairly strong squad of 13 athletes who are ready to take on athletes from all over Africa especially from the Southern Region. This team is full of athletes who have once or twice taken part in similar international levels, so they are expected to deliver and give their best performance.
“This time around we are giving these youths a spectacular platform to showcase their talent and to prove that Zimbabwe is also a force to reckon with. The stage is going to give our athletes exposure so that they don’t suffer from stage fright in Ukraine in July,” said Muringani
Chidavaenzi, a St George’s College student, expressed optimism ahead of the Botswana championships citing that he has been to the World Championships before.
“I see myself going to make the nation and in particular my school proud. All has been set and we just have to get into the competition mood,” said the pint-sized athlete.
He said Zimbabwe has a good record at international level events and they will complement very well to keep the records alive.
“We have a bigger challenge every time we take part in any national athletics duties because of the previous records set by our brothers and sisters such as Elliot Mujaji and US-based Ngonidzashe Makusha who has been raising our flag high,” he added.
Vanhuvaone, the only Ukraine-bound girl, said she was more than ready for the World Championships.
“I am very pleased to be part of this team going to Ukraine. Indeed, it is such an honour, but after working hard, I told myself that I should win accolades for my country setting the pace for all aspiring female athletes.
“I am destined for the crown and I assure you it is coming to Zimbabwe courtesy of your girl Yvo,” beamed the Chisipite Senior School student.
Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, Lesotho, Madagascar, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe are among the countries taking part at this year’s championships.
Online Reporter