New Mexico Declares September 3rd "Tapiwanashe Mak...

New Mexico Declares September 3rd "Tapiwanashe Makarawu Day"

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

In a remarkable tribute to Zimbabwean sprinter Tapiwanashe Makarawu, the city of Hobbs, New Mexico, has declared September 3rd as "Tapiwanashe Makarawu Day."

The honor recognises Makarawu’s impressive achievements at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where he finished 6th in the Men’s 200-meter race.

During a ceremony on Tuesday, Hobbs Mayor Sam Cobb presented the official proclamation to Deron Clark, the Director of Athletics at New Mexico Junior College, where Makarawu has been studying since 2022.

Cobb praised the athlete’s dedication and success, noting that, although he did not secure a medal, his placement among the top sprinters in the world is a commendable achievement.

“Tapiwanashe Makarawu, affectionately known as ‘Carlie’ by his friends, finished in an impressive 6th place in the Men's 200-meter race at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris,” said Mayor Cobb.

“Although he didn’t secure a medal, placing sixth in a global competition is a truly commendable achievement.

Hailing from Zimbabwe, he shared that reaching the Olympics required relentless hard work and dedication.”

With great pride, Cobb proclaimed, “I, Sam D. Cobb, Mayor of Hobbs, New Mexico, officially proclaim September 3 Tapiwanashe Makarawu Day in Hobbs to celebrate his outstanding accomplishments.”

Makarawu expressed his gratitude for the honor, stating, "Thank you for this recognition. I am deeply grateful and humbled by this gesture."

His achievements have not only made a mark in Hobbs but have also resonated back home in Zimbabwe, where the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee celebrated the announcement with the message: "HISTORY MADE! Hobbs, New Mexico, declares Tapiwanashe Makarawu Day! Honoring our Zimbabwean sprint star’s accomplishments on and off the track!"

Having completed his studies at NMJC, Makarawu is set to further his education and athletic career at the University of Kentucky. He plans to pursue a degree in Psychology while competing in NCAA Division 1 track events, continuing his journey as both a student and an athlete.

This recognition highlights Makarawu’s impact as a rising star in athletics, and the city of Hobbs is proud to celebrate his hard work and dedication, serving as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.