The Mashonaland West National Association of Secondary Heads (Nash) Provincial Athletics Competitions, held at Jameson High School from March 11 to 12, witnessed a spectacular display of talent and athletic prowess as young athletes broke records and showcased their skills.
Hosted at Chemukute High School from Mhondoro District, the event brought together some of the best young athletes in the province, with the under-16 category stealing the show.
Seven districts across the province converged at Jameson High School where provincial education director Edson Chauke, districts schools inspectors, heads, teachers, athletes and spectators were in attendance to celebrate and witness the talents shown by the learners in track and field events and as well as chess.
The two-day event was a proof of the nurturing of talent in Mashonaland West, with athletes delivering outstanding performances in various track and field events.
Records tumbled as youngsters pushed themselves to new heights, impressing spectators and coaches alike with their speed, agility, and determination. The under-16 category was particularly impressive, with several athletes announcing their arrival on the Provincial stage.
Notable performances came from Annah Musambakaruma (Nemakonde), who dominated the U16 girls' field events, Ndewere Kudakwashe, who cleared an impressive 1.89m in the high jump, Kwambana Munashe (Kutama), who clocked a stellar time in the 200m, and Natasha Shiri, who blitzed the 100m and 200m events.
These athletes are poised to make a mark at the upcoming NASH Nationals in Harare, with their times and distances good enough to clinch gold medals.
Speaking to the Nash provincial secretary general Noel Mutangi, said he was impressed by the performances coming from the seven districts and was confident that they will come up with a strong provincial team to conquer the national competitions.
"The competitions were fantastic, and athletes showcased that they had what it takes to break some records. The provincial competitions lived up to their billing, and we prepared well to host the provincial competitions," Mutangi said.
"We are proud of the level of organisation and the enthusiasm displayed by the athletes. It's clear level that our schools are nurturing talent that can compete at the highest level," he added.
Nash vice chairperson Richard Nyanzira praised the athletes, saying, "The level of competition was top-notch and we're confident that we'll retain our title at the Nationals." He also thanked sponsors like Eversharp, who donated prizes to the winners, saying, "We appreciate Eversharp's support, it's a big boost to our athletes and we are going to partner with them next year," he said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, competitions head In charge Admire Mufiri was impressed by the way the competitions were held and applauded the districts for committing themselves to athletics. "The commitment and dedication shown by the districts is commendable. We're thrilled with how the competitions were held and look forward to seeing these athletes shine at the Nationals," he said.
The athletes who qualified for the Mashonaland West Provincial team are gearing up for the upcoming Nash nationals, and they're determined to make their mark. Kudakwashe Ndewere (high jump), Kwambana Munashe Kutama (track ), and Natasha Shiri (sprint) are among the talented athletes representing the province.
"We are ready to take on the best from other provinces and bring home the gold medals,”Ndewere said.
“We will work hard and we are confident in our abilities. I am feeling strong and focused, looking forward to competing against the best and proving myself at the nationals.
"We have got a great team spirit and we are all pushing each other to be our best and we are going to give it our all and make Mashonaland West proud," added Munashe Kwambana from Kutama. "I am thrilled to be representing my province and I am going to run my heart out and bring home some medals," said Natasha Shiri.
The Mashonaland West provincial team is set to compete at the Nash nationals in Harare, and all eyes will be on these talented athletes.