Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
PHAKAMILE Lisimati is upbeat as Zimbabwe prepares to host the Southern Region Championships later this month.
The national athletics team will head into camp ahead of the event set for July 26–27, with the veteran coach optimistic about the squad’s readiness and potential.
The upcoming meet marks the third major event organised this year by the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz), which appears to have found its groove following a fruitful partnership with 5Brands Consulting Group.
In just five months, the collaboration has helped polish the federation’s image and breathe fresh life into the sport.
In April, Bulawayo hosted a lively National Junior Championships, followed by an equally impressive senior competition in June.
Both events not only drew sizeable crowds, but also helped identify standout performers for national selection.
Now, a youthful squad featuring names like Methembe Tshuma, Daniel Magogo, Rutendo Vushe, Samukeliso Ndebele and Brenda Njodzi has been assembled to take on the region’s best.
Countries expected to participate include Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Mauritius, Angola, the Seychelles, Lesotho, Eswatini and hosts Zimbabwe.
“We have a good team, great athletes prepared to face tough competition from across the region,” said Lisimati, who also serves as Naaz technical and coaching director.
He’s pleased that many of Zimbabwe’s athletes will gain valuable international experience.
“This is a natural progression from the national championships. It’s important that our young athletes test themselves at the next level,” he said.
Camp preparations will begin once sponsorship and logistics are in place.
“The national executive and team management are working tirelessly to ensure the team goes into camp. A few days together will help fine-tune combinations, especially with athletes coming from different clubs and backgrounds. We want them to rise to the occasion and represent the country well,” Lisimati said from his Gwanda base.
National competitions director Manu Mpofu promised fans an electrifying spectacle, predicting “fireworks” in multiple events.
“The programme is designed to challenge the best and excite the spectators. It’s two days of non-stop excellence, camaraderie and competitive fire. Zimbabwe is ready,” said Mpofu from Bulawayo.
The meet kicks off at noon on July 26, with the closing ceremony scheduled for noon the following day.
The relay events will wrap up the competition in style.
ZIMBABWE SQUAD
MEN
100m
Ngoni Makusha, Methembe Tshuma, Daniel Magogo
200m
Daniel Magogo, Dennis Hove
400m Hurdles
Kurai Chigumani, Wesley Mazarura
400m
Thandazani Ndlovu, Sean Nyabadza, Gerren Muwishi
800m
Ellias Chauke, Shyne Makota, Kelvin Bverekwa
1 500m
Wellington Varevi, Freedom Banda, Mathew Masarirevhu
5 000m
Wellington Varevi, Bonani Moyo, Simiso Ndlovu
10 000m
Tendai Zimuto, Bismak Lord Mathe, Lucky Munsaka
Long Jump
Panashe Mutenure, Tinaye Watunga
High Jump
Blessmore Sibanda, Benson Magombe, Aleck Vhovha
Triple Jump
Benson Magombe, Takunda Mutizwa
Javelin
Advocate Ndlovu, Isiah Mupfayi
Discus
Takunda Mubariki, Isiah Mupfayi
Shot Put
John Nyakonda, Prosper Zimbango
Relays – 4x100m
Methembe Tshuma, Ngoni Makusha
Relays – 4x400m
Leeford Zuze, Dennis Hove
WOMEN
100m
Samukeliso Ndebele, Rutendo Vushe, Hailey Chingono
200m
Samukeliso Ndebele, PraisGod Nyamulepa
400m Hurdles
Lethubuhle Sibanda
400m
Anesu Nyahuma, Beyonce Sabubia, Clara Dangara
800m
Brenda Njodzi, Lethubuhle Sibanda, Talent Ndlovu
1 500m
Martha Chipuriro, Mabambe Mudenda, Vannessa Musiyakuwa
5 000m
Tulange Mudenda, Martha Chipuriro, Answer Brandieta
High Jump
Azile Tshuma, Ruvimbo Sibanda
Long Jump
Moilar Makamu, Ruvimbo Vengesai
Javelin
Stacey Nyawasha, Linda Nyamutswa
Discus
Kimberly Kachambwa
Shot Put
Lisa Moyo, Wayne Nkomo
100m Hurdles
Rejoice Dlodlo, Ruvimbo Sibanda
Relays – 4x100m
Rutendo Vushe, Elizabeth Msipa
Sidumisile Mabena