Story by Raynald Ngwarati
THE 2025 Southern Region Senior Athletics Championships kicked off in Harare this Saturday, bringing together 10 countries for a battle of speed, strength and skill at the University of Zimbabwe main arena.
United by ambition and the dream of qualifying for the 2025 Tokyo World Athletics Championships, Southern Africa’s top athletes are in Harare for regional championships.
With over 25 athletes per country, the University of Zimbabwe main arena was a melting pot of talent this Saturday, as sprinters, jumpers and throwers battled for medals on the opening day and potential scholarship opportunities abroad.
“I’m looking forward to making it to the World Athletics Championships. Just reaching the finals would be a big milestone,
“It wasn’t my best day, but I learned so much from competing at this level. I’m honored to be part of this event,”
“We arrived late from Namibia so I wasn’t at my best today, but I’ll give it my all in the 200m tomorrow. The competition is tough, but the track and officials are world-class,” said the athletes
Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture, Honourable Emelly Jesaya highlighted Zimbabwe’s pride in hosting the event.
“The Government of Zimbabwe is proud to be hosting the Confederation of African Athletics. With ten countries represented, this demonstrates our commitment to sport, regional integration, and showcasing Zimbabwe’s capabilities on the international stage,” she said.
NAAZ president, Tatenda Tagara weighed in, “We have brought in a strong junior-focused team to secure Zimbabwe’s future. Many are hoping for scholarships abroad, and I’m especially encouraged by the performance of our junior girls.”
For the athletes, the championship is not only about medals, it is a chance to achieve qualifying times and gain international exposure.
With momentum building, the championships continue this Sunday, promising more record-breaking performances and stories of rising African stars.
