National Athletes Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ) president Tendai Tagara has expressed optimism over the future of local athletics, citing a surge in junior participation and structured development pathways ahead of a landmark competition earlier this month.
Tagara told NewsDay Sport that the association is beginning to see the impact of its grassroots focus, with young athletes turning out in impressive numbers ahead of the national championships set for April 25 and 26.
“The registration of both the senior and junior championships closed on the 15th with a very good turnout,” said Tagara.
“The juniors were really outstanding because most of them are chasing qualification for major championships this year, and that shows the impact we are making in development.”
Zimbabwe is targeting strong representation at several regional and global events, including the Southern Region Junior Championships in Mozambique in December and the World Junior Championships in the United States in August.
To boost competitiveness, NAAZ has introduced electronic timing at the upcoming championships, addressing a long-standing concern among athletes.
“We have hired an expert for electronic timing from South Africa to make sure our juniors get accurate times,” Tagara said.
“This is a big opportunity because many have been going outside the country to seek such facilities.”
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He added that performances at the championships will be crucial for athletes targeting the African Junior Championships in Mauritius and the Southern Youth Championships in June.
“So far, we have only two athletes who have qualified for the World Junior Championships, one in the 200 metres and another in high jump, but we expect more to qualify,” he said.
Tagara also praised the senior team for their recent achievements, which have raised Zimbabwe’s profile internationally.
The national 4x400m relay team recently broke a 29-year-old record and climbed to a world ranking of 13.
“We are impressed by the performance of the senior team,” he said.
“They have shown that with proper support, Zimbabwe can compete at the highest level.”
The seniors now face a busy schedule, including the World Relays in Botswana and the African Senior Championships from May 10 to 17.
Selections for the continental event will be finalised after the national championships, with the 4x400m relay team already assured of qualification.
“They will be chasing qualification for the World Championships in China, so this is a very important season,” Tagara said.
With a blend of emerging junior talent and in-form seniors, Tagara believes Zimbabwe athletics is on the right path.
“With the structures we are putting in place, from selection to support, we are building a system that can make athletics great again in Zimbabwe.”
