Story by ZBC Reporter
YOUNG athletes in Matabeleland North are set to benefit from a groundbreaking athletics partnership between Hwange Colliery Company and the Botswana Athletics Board, a move expected to nurture budding talent and elevate Zimbabwe’s presence on the regional sporting stage.
The development was announced during the Track and Field Championships held in Hwange this Saturday, where athletes from across the country showcased their skills in various field and track events. The championships drew competitors with experience at both regional and international levels, highlighting the vast pool of talent in the province.
“I am always training for these games, and this is my second time coming to compete here in Hwange, and I want to compete every time. I come from Binga, and I came here to compete in the 3000-meter track event. I am happy and grateful to be here. It is great to be here, and with time, this will benefit me. I hope to take part in the Hwange Colliery Sports Club. I think this will even help me in terms of employment at Colliery,” a young athlete said.
The athletes are poised to benefit from a proposed synergy with the Botswana Athletics Board, after negotiations were held between the two bodies.
The government sees the collaboration as a critical opportunity for national development in athletics.
“This initiative comes on the back of Botswana’s impressive track record and recent outstanding performances at the Southern Region Senior Athletics Championships held in Harare. Such cross-border collaboration will not only raise the standards of our athletics but also expose our athletes to international training methods and competitive environments, positioning our province as a true regional sporting hub,” Matebeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo noted.
Supported by the corporate sector, the event focused on curbing drug and substance abuse through sports development.
Meanwhile, the first-ever Kamandama Marathon is set for November this year, with the Chipangano Grassroots Trophy Challenge still in its planning stages.
