Paralympians lament shoddy Rio preps

Ellina Mhlanga Harare Bureau
ZIMBABWE National Paralympic Committee secretary-general, Lewis Garaba, believes with better preparations, the country could have done better at the ongoing Games in Brazil. Zimbabwe had six athletes taking part – the para-rowing team of Margaret Bangajena, Previous Wiri, Michelle Garnett, Takudzwa Gwariro and Jessica Davis and Laina Sithole, who competed in the 100m T13.

The para-rowing team finished 12th and Sithole finished fifth in heat one and could not progress to the final. Garaba said the results were an indication there was need to invest in sport to get podium finishes at such competitions.

“It’s sad, it means we have a lot to do especially on preparations. More talent identification and put more resources into sport. Sport has lots of benefits to the nation. “We did our best with the available resources but I still think that we need to prepare more for competitions at this highest level. We can do more.

“Well done to para-rowing, a new kid on the block and I am happy they left a mark. “Remember the team was assembled only this year. Well done to Rachel (Davis), the coach,” said Garaba.

Garaba said they hope the Sports and Recreation policy adopted by government will address some of the issues that continue to hinder the progress of sport. The national Paralympic Committee struggled to send athletes to qualifying events, which saw some of their athletes missing the opportunity to qualify for the Games.

“I think this is about resources especially financial. We could have done more camps, training and attend at least three qualifiers. “In the past there were clubs and that’s why Elliot Mujaji did well. The mines had some of the best clubs and were supportive and he was also a good athlete.

“Maybe now with the launch of the national Sports and Recreation policy some of the issues will be addressed,” said Garaba. Garaba is expected to leave for Brazil this week to attend meetings being held by the International Paralympic Committee during these Games.

“My going there is primarily to attend IPC and APC meetings yet to be done. It’s an opportunity to network, benchmark our performance and share experiences. “I think this platform is one of the greatest opportunities to prepare for the next Games because you meet the IPC, APC and over 175 National Paralympic Committees and sport development arms in one place.

“We have already started working with Japan Paralympic Committee for Tokyo 2020 and they have invited ZNPC to a meeting in Rio,” said Garaba. The curtain comes down on the Games on Sunday and the team is expected back in the country next week.