A Form 3 pupil from Sagonda Secondary School in Nkayi is emerging as one of Matabeleland North’s most promising young athletes with dreams of representing Zimbabwe on the international stage.
Siphilisiwe Moyo, a 15-year-old from Mgazula Village under Chief Skhobokhobo in Ward 15, has earned recognition for her exceptional talent in middle-distance races.
Sagonda Secondary School athletics coach Godknows Gatsheni told Nkayi Community Parliament during a recent virtual discussion that Moyo’s journey began in primary school.
At Sagonda Secondary, Moyo quickly made her mark during inter-house competitions, where she scooped multiple gold medals in the 800m, 400m, 200m and 100m events.
He said she continued her dominance at the Western Zone competitions, representing Nkayi district against top athletes from the Southern, Northern and Central zones.
“At that level, she won gold in the 800 metres, silver in the 400 metres and bronze in the 100 metres,” Gatsheni said.
Gatsheni added that Moyo’s consistent performance saw her selected to represent Matabeleland North at national level competitions held in Harare, where she earned a silver medal in the 800m race.
“She is preparing to compete in Harare where athletes will be selected to represent Zimbabwe in international competitions in Mauritius, Mozambique and the United States of America,” Gatsheni said.
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Despite her success, financial constraints threaten to derail her progress.
The athlete’s camp is appealing for support to cover transport costs to Harare as well as essential athletics gear, including branded running kits and spike shoes.
“As her coach, I believe she has great potential, particularly in the 800m and 400m events,” Gatsheni said.
“We shifted focus from shorter sprints like 100m and 200m to middle-distance races, and that’s where she has truly excelled.”
He added that efforts were underway to further improve her endurance and finishing techniques through structured training.
“The whole community sees her as a role model — a young girl from a rural background competing with top athletes from bigger schools,” Gatsheni added.
Gatsheni said he believes that with proper support, Moyo could go far, not just for herself, but as a symbol of hope for many rural athletes.
“She is a perfect example of what a girl child can achieve with determination,” he said.
