Zimbabwe's Athletics Shine in 2024: A Year of Grow...

Zimbabwe's Athletics Shine in 2024: A Year of Growth and Global Success

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

Zimbabwe's athletics achievements in 2024 have been nothing short of remarkable, with impressive performances from both emerging talents and seasoned athletes on the global stage.

From the African Games in Ghana to the World Junior Championships in Lima and the Paris Olympics, Zimbabwe’s athletes have not only demonstrated their competitive spirit but have also made significant strides in enhancing the country's athletics profile.

At the African Games in Ghana, Zimbabwe's athletes showcased their talent and determination, securing two bronze medals. Isaac Mpofu earned a podium finish in the 21km race, while Ashley Miller-Kamangira claimed a bronze in the 110m hurdles. Additionally, the country’s relay teams, both in the 4x100m and 4x400m, finished in the top 8, highlighting strong competition against some of Africa’s best.

The Africa Senior Championships in Cameroon saw further success for Zimbabwe. Tapiwanashe Makarawu earned a silver medal in the 200m, cementing his place as one of Africa’s top sprinters. Chengetayi “Du Airlines” Mapaya also won silver in the triple jump, continuing his impressive run in the event on the continental stage. These achievements solidified Zimbabwe's reputation in African athletics.

At the World Junior Championships in Lima, Zimbabwe's next generation of athletes made their mark. Panashe Nhenga, David Nyamufarira, Brandon Muvhimi, and Caledon set a new national U20 record in the 4x100m relay, showcasing the potential of the country's rising stars. This achievement fueled optimism for the future of Zimbabwean athletics.

At the Paris Olympics, Zimbabwe’s athletes delivered historic performances. Isaac Mpofu finished in 19th place in the marathon, marking a significant achievement on the world’s biggest stage. Tapiwanashe Makarawu and Makanakaishe Charamba also reached the top 8 in the men’s 200m, securing spots in the Olympic final. Their performances were a reflection of their hard work, dedication, and potential for future success.

In the Paris Paralympics, Zimbabwe’s athletics program was represented with distinction by Kudakwashe Chigwedere, who reached the top 8 in the 100m, making him a finalist. His performance brought pride to the nation, highlighting the growth of Zimbabwe’s para-athletics program.

As Zimbabwe’s athletes continue to excel on the international stage, the importance of grassroots development cannot be overstated. Harare Athletics Board Chairperson, Cousinet Simunyu, emphasized that the recruitment of athletes from cadet through to senior levels is crucial for the country’s long-term success in athletics.

Simunyu said, “We are working tirelessly to recruit young athletes, from the cadets to the seniors, so that we can build a sustainable athletics system. By nurturing talent from the grassroots level, we ensure that the next generation of athletes is ready to take on the challenges of international competition.”

This focus on grassroots development is evident in the increasing number of young athletes representing Zimbabwe at prestigious events and setting new records. It speaks to the growing potential of Zimbabwe’s athletics program and its ability to compete at the highest levels.

National Athletics Captain, Gerren Muwishi, commented, "It's evident that we have the talent in the country. Throughout the years, the country has been consistently producing talented athletes, as evidenced by our consistent presence at major global competitions.

All that the athletes need is the means and support to continue doing their work behind the scenes. With better infrastructure and facilities, the sky is the limit for Zim Athletics."

The performances of Zimbabwe’s athletes in 2024 have set a strong foundation for the future of athletics in the country. With continued investment in grassroots development, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to continue making an impact on the global stage.

The achievements of its athletes in 2024 serve as a reflection of the nation’s rich sporting tradition and its potential for even greater success in the years ahead.