adminin Mozambique as they began preparations for next year’s Games scheduled for London.
The week-long camp touched on several issues, including updating the athletes and coaches on what is expected of them at the event next year. Zambia, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Zimbabwe attended the seminar.
The ZPC board was represented by vice-president, Oripa Mubika, while Eliot Mujaji, Washington Nyamukapa and Mildred Mubayi represented the coaches. Clement Nyoni, Moline Majoni and Zvisinei Chirendo were standing in for the athletes.
ZPC secretary general, Lewis Garaba, said their aim was to ensure that athletes and coaches get the exposure they require for such a big event.
“We want our athletes, that were in Mozambique to keep updated on what’s happening and the expectations for next year’s Paralympic games.
“The seminar was conducted by the International Paralympic Committee people to develop countries in Southern Region.
“It was meant to identify means to improve athletes, coaches and administrators so that they are in touch with what is happening the world over in Paralympic sports and what to expect at the 2012 London Olympics Games.
“For the administrators they looked at the issue of talent identification and duties of the chef de mission.
“They also talked about the licensing of athletes and what drugs not to take when going for the Games,” said Garaba.
Most of the athletes who were in Mozambique failed to impress except for visually impaired sprinter, Nyaradzai Tagarira who won a silver medal in the 100m event.
“We are hoping that if they keep on training they will meet the times.
“There are many qualifying events that will be held in different countries throughout the continent.
“However, there is need to go outside the country and compete with other countries,” said Garaba.
Online Reporter
Sidumisile Mabena