Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE road to the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe junior championships took a familiar turn this Saturday as some of the country’s top junior athletes booked their places at the national finals after dominating various disciplines during the qualifiers held at the University of Zimbabwe in Harare.
The competition also provided a glimpse into the country’s next generation of track and field talent as athletes delivered impressive performances across several events.
Shallom Sendi, who represented the country at the 2024 Regional Five Youth Games, scooped gold in the Under-20 girls’ 100 metres in a time of 12.25 seconds ahead of Aisha Matanha and Praise Mareure.
Sendi, however, failed to repeat her heroics in the 200 metres after settling for third place, with Delight Maravanyika taking the honours while Aisha Matanha once again claimed silver.
In the men’s 100 metres event, Takudzwa Mbonyeke took gold in 10.39 seconds, followed by Munashe Kwambana and Prince Mandisodza to complete the podium positions.
In the 200 metres event, Emmanuel Nhula came first, followed by Arab Chimuchembere and Munashe Kwambana.
In the women’s 400 metres event, Anesu Nyahuma continued to dominate the distance that earned her regional gold last year, with the Bindura University Academy athlete romping to victory ahead of national representative Nataly Shoko and Amanda Moyo.
In the men’s 400 metres event, Nenyasha Chihora remains the man to beat after cruising to victory in 47.77 seconds ahead of Emmanuel Nhula and Vongai Mutiwiyi.
Martha Chipuriro of Bindura University Academy won the 1 500 metres event, while Sperloge Kachembere romped to victory in the 3 000 metres race, with both athletes adding to the medals they collected at last year’s Regional Five Youth Games.
Panashe Mutenure won the long jump while Leeroy Chishaya dominated the triple jump event.
In the throws, Kimberly Kachambwa won the women’s shot put while Ethan Hinds dominated the men’s throws, with both athletes also claiming victory in the discus.
The other qualifying competition was held simultaneously at White City Stadium in Bulawayo, with the national finals set for Bulawayo next month.
