Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S national athletics coach Lisimati Phakamile says they are putting the heartbreak of the World Relays behind them, and shifting focus to the future, with a clear message: local talent can go all the way.
The men’s 4x400m relay team, featuring athletes groomed on local tracks, was disqualified during Round Two of the World Athletics Relays qualifiers in Guangzhou, China, on Sunday. A baton change error, a line infringement, dashed Zimbabwe’s hopes of early qualification for the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.
But Phakamile, a firm believer in the potential of Zimbabwe’s home grown athletes, says the setback only strengthens their resolve.
“I want to commend the boys for their effort. The commitment they showed, both in training and competition, was outstanding,” he said.
“It was their first time competing at that level, and the experience they’ve gained is invaluable. The lessons learnt will serve us well as we go forward.”
Phakamile, who also oversees talent development within the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ), said it’s time to think beyond simply qualifying.
“We can’t just aim to qualify anymore. We must now focus on reaching finals, even fighting for medals. That’s the next phase of our journey.”
“The encouraging thing is, most of these athletes were prepared using our own resources here at home. If we can achieve that with so little, imagine what we could do with more investment.”
His comments ring particularly true for Bulawayo, a city long regarded as a cradle of sporting talent. The relay team’s composition is a reflection of the country’s untapped potential, which Phakamile insists can only be fully realised with more structured support.
“We’ll go back to the drawing board, assess our performance, and identify where to improve. The goal is clear, build athletes who not only qualify but compete at the highest level.”
With the qualification window for track and field still open until August, the four-man team Gerren Muwishi, Leeford Zuze, Aldrin Tafa, and Dennis Hove are now chasing individual qualification times for the World Championships and other elite meets.
Speaking after the return from China, Muwishi said the team remains upbeat despite the disappointment.
“It was a tough one to take, but the boys gave it their all. We’ve taken home valuable lessons and we’re staying positive,” he said.
“Qualification is still ongoing. Individually, we’re pushing hard. There’s also still hope as a team, the two fastest teams
