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ZIMBABWE’S IAAF World Youth Championships team leaves for Colombia today, with two medal hopefuls missing.
Vimbayi Maisvoreva and Alfred Chaonza, who had qualified for the 800m race, will not compete at the world games because they are “under age for the competition”.
According to competition rules, only athletes born between 1998 and 1999 are eligible.
Maisvoreva and Chaonza were both born in 2000. In previous editions, countries were allowed to request participation of younger athletes, but this time the IAAF have left no room for clemency.
Zimbabwe coach Briad Nhubu said: “Seven athletes were confirmed, while the others were not accepted on the basis of being under the age limit. They only want (those born in) 1998 and 1999,” he said.
The seven athletes leading the country’s hunt for medals are Shingirai Hlanguyo (100m, 200m), Tinotenda Matienga (200m), Enlitha Ncube (800m, mixed relay 4x400m), Chengetai Mapaya (triple jump), Nomatter Kapfudzaruwa (400m, mixed relay), Patience Ngwenya (400m, mixed relay) and Leon Tafirenyika (400m, mixed relay)
Nhubu, who is also National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe director of youth coaching, anticipates a good outing.
“We have the likes of Shingirai Hlanguyo, who showed he can compete at such big events by winning bronze at the African Youth Championships in Mauritius.
“He has had exposure at international competitions in South Africa where he is based. I believe he can go all the way to the semi-finals and finals. There is also Enlitha Ncube whom we expect to get to the finals because she has been doing well,” he said.
The championships run from July 15 to 19.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter