BY STAFF REPORTER 

Zimbabwe’s search for a new Warriors coach is nearing its end! After a long wait, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is set to announce a substantive coach for the senior men’s national team in just a few days.

This comes after a thorough recruitment process, which included interviews with five top contenders, ZIFA said on Tuesday.

“In parallel, ZIFA is diligently working on compiling the shortlist for the Mighty Warriors Head Coach position,” ZIFA said.

“The interview process for this role is set to be completed by Monday, 29 July.

“ZIFA remains committed to appointing the most qualified and capable coaches to lead our national teams. We believe that these appointments will significantly contribute to the development and success of Zimbabwean football on the international stage.”

The shortlisted candidates are Gerard Nus, Michael Nees, Marcio Maximo Barcellos, Antoine Hey, and Winfried Schäfer.

FIFA’s commitment to funding the coach’s salary has been a game-changer, allowing ZIFA to attract top talent.

The association said it is determined to find the best fit to lead the Warriors to victory.

BY OWN CORRESPONDENT 

Victoria Falls’ rising star, Denzel Ngavi, is sprinting his way to becoming the town’s poster boy. The Mosi-Oa-Tunya High School runner clinched gold at the Pupkewitza Open Athletics Championships in Namibia, shaving off precious seconds to inch closer to his target.

Denzel’s determination is paying off, as he improved his personal best from 48.38 seconds to 47.80 seconds in the 400m category. He’s now just a fraction of a second away from the coveted 47.65 seconds record needed to qualify for international events.

The young Chinotimba high- density suburb athlete’s hard work and dedication is evident, as he beat his close opponent, Namibia’s best under-20 athletes, Aoxamu Danny-Boy Otjiac who was the reigning gold champion by a split second.

He’s quick to credit his support system. “I’m grateful to my father, Daniel Machaka Ngavi, for sacrificing everything to be here and support me,” he says. “And to my coach, Raymond, I’ve made tremendous strides under your guidance. This win is a testament to our hard work.”

Denzel’s sights are set on the next challenge, as he prepares to take on the best in Botswana at an upcoming event. With his momentum building, there’s no doubt this talented runner will continue to make waves in the athletics world. Go, Denzel, go!”

By Nokuthaba Dlamini

On June 7, the majestic Victoria Falls provided a breathtaking backdrop for the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon. As the sun rose over the iconic landmark, thousands of runners from around the world gathered at the starting line, eager to tackle the challenging 42.2-kilometer course. The electric atmosphere was palpable as participants prepared to push their limits in the marathon, 21-kilometer, and 7.5-kilometer fun run events.

As the starter’s gun fired, the crowd surged forward, a kaleidoscope of colorful running gear and determined faces streaming across the Victoria Falls Bridge. The route wound its way through the stunning Victoria Falls National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and surrounding wilderness.

Road to Victory

Among the pack of determined athletes was last year’s winner, Zimbabwe’s Isaac Mpofu. As the race reached its halfway point, the field began to thin out, and runners engaged in a thrilling battle. Their footsteps pounded out a rhythmic beat as they hurtled towards the finish line.

Tendai Zimuto emerged victorious in the men’s 42.2km category, completing the race in an impressive 2 hours 17 minutes and 14 seconds. Trust Tatenda Hove followed closely, finishing in 2 hours 23 minutes and 25 seconds.

In the women’s 42.2km category, Ethel Pangiso of ZRP successfully defended her title with a winning time of 2 hours 47 minutes and 14 seconds. Meanwhile, Mpofu took first place in the men’s 21.1km category, finishing in 1 hour 4 minutes and 41 seconds, ahead of defending champion Moses Tarakinyu of Black Rhinos.

Elizabeth Mukoloma of Zambia made history as the first foreign winner of the women’s 21.1km race, finishing in 1 hour 18 minutes and 47 seconds. Patience Garauzive of Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services took second place with a time of 1 hour 20 minutes and 9 seconds.

Road to Victory

Econet Chief Operating Officer Kezito Makuni congratulated the winners, praising their exceptional endurance and determination. “Today, we celebrate not only the triumph of our winners but also the unbreakable spirit that defines each and every one of you,” he said. “Your unwavering perseverance is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication, serving as a beacon of inspiration to us all and reminding us that success is the direct result of unwavering commitment and relentless drive.”