Prince Chese
Mangwe District once again proved its dominance in athletics after winning the Matabeleland South Provincial NASH Athletics Championships held at Manama Mission, securing the title for the 10th consecutive time.
The district delivered an outstanding performance, finishing at the top of the medal table with 32 gold medals, 20 silver and 10 bronze, accumulating 146 points to comfortably beat seven other districts.
Bulilima finished second with19 gold, 14 silver and 14 bronze medals for 99 points, while Matobo took third place after collecting 13 gold, 18 silver and 18 bronze medals, earning 93 points. Beitbridge, also known as Rainbow District, came fourth with 13 gold, 14 silver and 19 bronze medals for 86 points.
Gwanda North secured fifth place with 8 gold, 11 silver and 14 bronze medals for 60 points, followed by Insiza with7 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze medals totaling 58 points. Gwanda South finished seventh with 6 gold, 8 silver and 7 bronze medals for 41 points, while Umzingwane placed last with 2 gold, 3 silver and 5 bronze medals, collecting 17 points.
Mangwe’s success has been attributed to early preparation, strong coaching structures and technical execution.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network, Head coach of athletics in Zimbabwe, Phakamile Lisimathi, praised the district’s commitment to the sport.
“Mangwe district has always chosen athletics as their main sport. They love athletics and invest in it. They even brought four buses of supporters, which shows the level of support athletics receives in the district,” said Lisimathi.
He also said that Mangwe has invested in coaching development and grassroots training for learners, making the district a powerhouse of athletics in Matabeleland South.
Mangwe coach Michael also said the role of sports science in the district’s continued success.
“We are applying sports science principles such as biomechanics and exercise physiology, which are key in improving performance among our athletes,” he said.
Athletes from the district also expressed pride in their achievements. Sasha Nasho of Empandeni High School said she performed well in her events.
“I took first position in the medley relay and second in the 200 metres, and we also still took first place in 4x100m . I usually watch videos to learn running tactics and improve my training,” she said.
Nasho thanked her school, parents and the Mangwe supporters for their encouragement.
“I appreciate the support from Empandeni High School and my parents. The supporters from Mangwe district also motivated us to perform better,” she said.
She encouraged upcoming athletes to remain focused and not be discouraged by negative comments as they pursue their sporting careers.