Zimbabwe team expected in Russia

Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe contingent is expected to arrive in Sochi, Russia today for the country’s inaugural participation in the Winter Olympics.
Zimbabwe is represented by Luke Henri Steyn who is the athlete and is being accompanied by Chef de Mission Kathleen Moira Lobb, coach Aaron Tipping and physiotherapist Tii Maria Romar.

The games will start tomorrow and run up to February 23.
Steyn whose exposure to the sport has been as a result of his stay abroad, will compete in Alpine Skiing’s slalom and giant slalom.

According to a Press release by the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee yesterday, Steyn’s qualification was confirmed on January 20 by the International Ski Federation (FIS).

That date was the official cut off for all bidding to be part of the Winter Olympic Games.
The Zimbabwean slalom athlete lives in England and has practised skiing since the age of three.
“His passion for competitive skiing has seen him take 12 months out of his studies to concentrate on qualifying for and participating at the Winter Olympic Games.

“According to the competition schedule, Luke will compete on the following dates February 19 (giant slalom) and February 22 (slalom).

The local contingent of the team is expected in Zimbabwe on February 24.
Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) president Admire Masenda will attend in his capacity as the National Olympic Committee boss of a participating nation.

Zimbabwe does not have snow and hence the sport is not offered locally.