Story by Mthokozisi Dube
PREPARATIONS for the return of the National Youth Games have gathered momentum, with provinces beginning the process of selecting athletes ahead of the finals scheduled for Marondera in August.
The multi-sport competition, regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s key talent identification platforms, returns this year after an eight-year absence, with thousands of young athletes expected to compete across various sporting disciplines.
Provincial trials are now underway across the country, with Bulawayo recording an overwhelming response from aspiring athletes seeking places in the provincial team.
Bulawayo Athletics Board chairperson, Mr Watson Madenyika, said preparations for the provincial selection process are progressing well.
“As the Bulawayo Athletics Board, we are excited to host a track and field competition where we will select athletes to represent the province at the Youth Games to be held in Mashonaland East in August.
“I am happy with the turnout. So far, we have registered more than 200 athletes, which is a sign that young sportspeople are eager to be considered for the provincial team.
“We are also hosting other disciplines besides athletics, including football, volleyball, basketball and Paralympic sport. We are encouraging the local community to come and support the athletes during the competitions tomorrow,” Madenyika said.
The last edition of the National Youth Games was held in 2017, attracting more than 4 000 athletes competing in 22 sporting disciplines.
