Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE is ready for the African Aquatics Championships, with women’s team captain Paige Van Der Westhuizen confident of medals as the competition gets underway today in Algeria.
The UK-based skipper leads a 10-member Zimbabwean swimming team into the continental showcase, declaring both a push for podium finishes and a strong assault on national records.
She headlines a senior cast that includes Anje Van As, Ashley Berejena and men’s captain Paul Mwipikeni, with all four expected to carry the nation’s medal hopes.
Van Der Westhuizen will compete in six events, while Van As arrives in top form following a strong showing in South Africa.
The junior contingent, made up of Mikayla Makwbarara, Alexis Johnsen, Neema Bhulabhai, Musawakhe Ncube, Teak Watson and Conor Grist, is expected to gain valuable international exposure, with some also tipped to challenge for podium places.
Zimbabwe’s focus remains on strong performances, personal bests and building momentum on the continental stage.
