Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango, Zimpapers Sports Hub
NATIONAL Athletics Association of Zimbabwe president Tendayi Tagara has challenged corporates in Zimbabwe to invest in the country’s emerging athletes after the men’s 4x400m relay team made history at the World Under-20 Championships in Oregon.
The quartet of Nenyasha Chihora, Emmanuel Uriga, Gift Khumalo and Ropafadzo Liberty Mzondo became the first Zimbabwean Under-20 4x400m relay team to reach a global final.
They finished eighth in the final in 3:12.14, having earlier shattered the national Under-20 record with an impressive 3:08.56 in the heats to book their place among the world’s best junior relay teams.
Tagara believes the achievement demonstrates what Zimbabwe’s emerging athletes can accomplish when afforded adequate preparation and international exposure.
He, however, warned that the country cannot afford to celebrate the breakthrough without investing in the athletes’ continued development.
“We cannot celebrate today and then start from zero when the next competition comes,” said Tagara.
“The athletes need camps. They need competition. They need exposure. They need equipment, travel, recovery and professional support. These things require resources.”
The Oregon campaign has strengthened NaazZ’s push for sustained corporate backing, particularly as some of the country’s leading juniors begin the transition towards senior competition.
“The evidence is now on the track,” Tagara said.
“We have demonstrated what these young athletes can do when they are given an opportunity. Imagine what Zimbabwe could achieve if this level of preparation and support became consistent rather than something we have to struggle to mobilise before every major championship.
“That is why our appeal to corporates is louder today than it was before Oregon. We need companies to walk this journey with us.”
Tagara also saluted sponsors, parents, guardians, coaches and well-wishers who helped Zimbabwe fulfil its Oregon assignment despite limited resources.
“To our sponsors, our partners and every well-wisher who responded when we called for assistance, we say thank you. You did not simply finance a trip. You invested in Zimbabwean talent,” he said.
“To the parents and guardians, we owe you an enormous debt of gratitude. You have supported these youngsters long before the world knew their names.”
Attention will now shift towards ensuring the promise demonstrated in Oregon is converted into sustained senior-level performances, with the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing among the major international assignments ahead.
Access to recognised competitions will be critical as athletes chase qualification standards and world-ranking points.
Tagara believes that makes early investment crucial.
“Oregon has shown us what is possible,” he said.
“The road to Beijing is opening. We have athletes who have shown that they belong on the world stage.
“Now we must make sure they have the support to stay there.”
