Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
A STORM of young talent swept through White City Stadium yesterday and now the wait begins. The National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) is set to name the final team to represent the nation at the AUSC Region Five Youth Games in Namibia — a moment of truth that arrives today.
Naaz president, Tendayi Tagara, confirmed the announcement, saying:
“This was the final selection event. From here, we pick the best of the best to carry Zimbabwe’s flag in Namibia.”
With the July Games fast approaching, the just-ended Junior Championships doubled as the last window for athletes to make their case.
The stakes could not have been higher and the athletes responded with electrifying performances that lit up the Bulawayo track.
In the men’s 200m, Tawananyasha Chimunya exploded down the home stretch, clocking an impressive 20.96 seconds to claim victory. Hot on his heels was Trevor Tauya in 21.11, while Methembe Tshuma sealed third with 21.21—a race decided by milliseconds and sheer will.
The women’s 200m delivered its own twist. Shalom Sendi crossed the line first in 25.30 seconds, but the fastest time of the day — 25.26 — belonged to Praise God Nyamulenga, who placed second in a puzzling result that raised eyebrows. Alisha Chihota claimed third in 25.71 seconds.
In the men’s 100m, Takomborerwa Muza dashed to glory in 10.69 seconds, stamping his authority as one of Zimbabwe’s most exciting young sprinters. The women’s 100m crown was clinched in 12.48 seconds — proof that the nation’s sprint talent is growing stronger with every meet.
Endurance met grit in the women’s 5000m, as Ratidzo Mupete outran the field to win in 18:55.98, showcasing a blend of stamina and heart.
In the field events, Rutendo Gomana reigned supreme in the women’s javelin, landing a 24.45m throw to finish ahead of Sikhulile Majoni and Zambia Machereka.
The women’s discus saw Kimberly Kachambwa dominate with a 34.42m throw, outclassing Nokunqoba Moyo (24.85m) and Michell Hama (17.95m), while Tinashe Run’anga led the shot put field with an 11.68m effort. Nokuthula Nyoni (11.11m) and Ntombikayise Sibanda (10.96m) completed the podium.
Now, the spotlight shifts to Sunday —when dreams will be made, and some hearts inevitably broken, as Naaz unveils the names who will wear the green and gold in Windhoek
“We’re excited by what we’ve seen,” Tagara added.
“The future looks bright, and we believe this team can compete with the best in the region.”
