Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
NATIONAL Athletics Association of Zimbabwe president Tendai Tagara has challenged the nation’s sporting community to invest in homegrown talent.
Tagara’s rallying cry came during a send-off ceremony for two rising stars – Wayne Kabondo and Fortunate Chidzivo of Mr Pace Academy – who are set to compete internationally in Zambia and Japan next month.
The event, hosted by a consortium of sponsors including Zimpost, Nicoz Diamond, and Global Risk Underwriting Managers (GRUMA), became a platform for a bold new vision for Zimbabwean athletics.
“Our strength is our homegrown talent. That is our advantage and that is what we want to see – more of our own athletes rising to the top,” said Tagara.
He cited Botswana’s strategic mastery of the 400 metres, which has now blossomed into dominance in sprints.
“That is the spirit we must embody. We want to create our own champions here.”
Outlining a concrete plan, Tagara identified two critical pillars, competition and coaching.
He revealed that NAAZ have acquired a new electronic timing system, a fundamental tool for legitimising races and attracting regional competitors.
“This is the foundation. This is the basis for our own competition,” he said.
“We need to develop coaches at every level. I challenge our marathon coaches.”
Chidzivo expressed her profound gratitude for the support.
“It’s always my pride to represent the nation, which I always do with joy,” she said.
“When I’m training, I know I’m not just training for myself but for the nation.”
Muvengwa Marumahoko, representing the sponsors, said:
“All we are doing is to try to help these athletes fulfil their potential and take them away from the streets.
“We are proud of their progress and we have been working with Mr Pace (Collen Makaza) to achieve that.”
Postmaster General of Zimpost Maxwell Chitendeni also attended the function.
Mathew Masinge