Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports hub
LAST week Zimpapers Sports Hub Deputy Sports Editor Lovemore Dube caught up with 200m national record holder Tapiwanashe Makarawu, who shared a bit about the 2025 season and his gaze into 2026.
An Olympic and World Championships 200m finalist, Makarawu had a very good season last year, winning both indoor and outdoor National Collegiate Athletics Association titles. He, alongside compatriot Makanakaishe Charamba, shared the indoor best time of 20.13 seconds before setting the national record of 19.84 seconds on the outdoor circuit.
The Olympian has been in Zimbabwe on a break and leaves for the United States to start preparing for the season.
He is confident the 4x100m relay team has potential for a podium finish at the highest level of competition in the world.
Here is the interview. Lovemore Dube is LD asking the questions and Tapiwanashe Makarawu is TM with the answers.
LD: Makarawu, Compliments of the Season, how have you been?
TM: I wish you a joyous holiday season as well. I’m thoroughly enjoying my break, although it’s regrettably drawing to a close. I’ve spent my Christmas break surrounded by loved ones, including family and a few close friends.
LD: What are your targets for 2026?
TM: As I look ahead to 2026, I’m excited to share that I have numerous plans and aspirations. On a personal level, I’m eager to focus on growth and development, as well as attend a few social events that I’m currently keeping under wraps. Professionally, I’m anticipating positive outcomes and am confident that my plans for 2026 will yield fruitful results.
LD: What stood above the rest during your 2025 athletics campaign?
TM: The standout highlight of 2025 was undoubtedly winning two NCAA Championships, both outdoors and indoors, and having the City of Hobbs declare September 3 as Tapiwanashe Makarawu Day in recognition of my achievements. Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting new individuals who have had a profoundly positive impact on my life.
LD: What were the season’s lows?
TM: I would characterise this year as a period of significant learning and growth. While I’ve faced challenges, including injury and loss of a friend, the good times have ultimately outweighed the bad. I’ve experienced a range of emotions, but I’m grateful to say that my faith has helped me navigate these ups and downs.
LD: How was the response to your successes?
TM: The response from friends, family, and fans following the Athletics World Championships was overwhelmingly supportive and humbling. Receiving such kindness from both acquaintances and strangers alike has been a powerful motivator, and I’m grateful for the encouragement.
LD: You were high up there competing against the best there is in the world, how was the feeling?
TM: To be honest, competing among the world’s top athletes is an honour I never took for granted. While I had imagined achieving success, I recognise that God’s plans are often more grand than our own. I’m proud of my performance and am committed to continuing to push myself to reach new heights.
LD: Your outlook to the 2026 season?
TM: With God’s guidance and intervention, 2026 appears to hold great promise. I’m currently preparing for upcoming events and am excited to see how the year unfolds.
LD: How do you rate your chances of success?
TM: While I can’t predict the future with certainty, I’m hopeful to participate in major events in the coming year, pending my world ranking. Given my current trajectory, I’m feeling optimistic about my prospects.
LD: What were the major takeaways of the 2025 athletics year?
TM: This year has taught me the importance of prioritising my faith and trusting in God’s plan. I’ve come to realise that with God, the possibilities are endless, and I’m eager to see what the future holds.
LD: Physically and mentally, how are you ahead of the 2026 season?
TM: I’m pleased to report that I’m in good health, both physically and emotionally. Receiving love and support from loved ones back home has been a tremendous boost, (more to talk of about love one day) But I’m grateful for the opportunity to recharge and refocus during the holiday season.
LD: How do you rate our chances in the 4x100m where we have yourself, Charamba, Denzil Siamusalela (10.03) and David Nyamufarira (10.01) in the 100m, Takudzwa Chiyangwa 32.38s in the 300m?
TM: That’s a podium finish relay team to be honest. The speed is already there, we lack the chemistry to pass around the baton stick because we are in different locations. Given that resources permit, we can easily get this done.
