ANCILLA GOTORE

MIRROR REPORTER

MASVINGO – Many people were touched yesterday to realise that some children living with disabilities could not attend yesterday’s Provincial Special Olympics selection competition because they are not vaccinated against Covid19.

This means these have missed the opportunity to participate in the International Special Olympics to be held in June, 2023.

Those who failed to attend competitions held at Don Bosco in Mucheke, Masvingo were athletes from Zaka, Mwenezi, Chivi and Gutu districts.

The development was confirmed by Clephas Nyengerai, the Provincial Special Olympics Coordinator.

Those selected are going to represent the province at National competition for Special Olympics in Zimbabwe to be held in Harare on April 21, 2022.

Ten best athletes were selected.

The qualifying athletes are; Mercy Njovu, Betty Makamera, Nothando Moto, Laiza Hove and Kudzai Chagonda (reserve). The boys that were selected include; Madhulu Nigel, Dzimiri Tambirai, Batai Crispen, Utete Jimmy, Brian Mazadza (reserve).

Nyengerai told The Mirror that said the list of selected athletes is due for submission on March 18, 2022.

“I’m glad the sports went on well where all categories were covered except shotput and high-jump because of facilities that are not user-friendly. Athletes from Districts as Zaka, Mwenezi, Chivi and Gutu failed to be part of today’s event since they are yet to be vaccinated,” said Nyengerai.

The National Special Olympics Coordinator, Owen Makaruwa was the guest of honor.

Makaruwa was impressed by the performance of the athletes encouraging members of the public living with people with special cases to help them in picking their talents rather than hiding them.

“I encourage parents to embrace special athletes as we move in line with the government of Zimbabwe’s policy of inclusivity leaving no one behind.

“We move with the theme; “Let me win! If I don’t let me be brave in every aspect I’m trying.” The community should therefore embrace every child despite any special case. I’m happy Masvingo managed to come up with a team to compete at National level,” said Makaruwa.

Present at the games were athletes from Alfred Walter, ZimCare, Masvingo Community, Resource Units from mainstream Schools; St Don Bosco and Chikato Primary School.https://masvingomirror.com/wp-admin/post.php?po