Prince Chese
The 2026 Matabeleland South Provincial National Association of Secondary School Heads (NASH) athletics competition got underway on Thursday at Manama Mission, with Mangwe District taking an early lead after the morning session of the first day.
Eight districts — Gwanda South, Gwanda North, Bulilima, Insiza, Matobo, Beitbridge, Mangwe and Mzingwane — are competing in the two-day provincial showcase, which brings together some of the province’s most promising school athletes.
The morning programme featured a number of field and track events, including the Under-20 boys’ shot put, Under-18 girls’ discus, the 100 metres across all age groups, and the Under-20 girls’ triple jump, setting the tone for an intense opening session.
By the end of the morning events, Mangwe had established a commanding lead on the medals table with 10 gold, six silver and two bronze medals, accumulating a total of 44 points.
Beitbridge District sits in second place with four gold medals, three silver and nine bronze, giving them 27 points.
Bulilima occupies third position with four gold, three silver and three bronze medals for a total of 21 points.
Matobo is tied on points with Bulilima but sits just behind after collecting three gold, four silver and four bronze medals to also reach 21 points.
Insiza is currently in fifth place with two gold, three silver and three bronze medals, amassing 14 points.
Gwanda North is yet to secure a gold medal but has managed four silver and two bronze medals for a total of 10 points.
Mzingwane and Gwanda South are level on six points each. Mzingwane has collected one gold, one silver and one bronze medal, while Gwanda South has also registered one gold, one silver and one bronze medal in the early stages of the competition.