NASH U16 girls hurdles champ in financial limbo

NYASHA SITHOLE is in a quandary owing to her failure to get money for air fares to participate in the African Youth Championships scheduled to be hosted by Mauritius from April 23 to 16May 2015.The 15year old , a Form One pupil at Muumbe Secondary school[rural school] in Chipinge District, the reigning NASH Under 16 girls 300m hurdles champion , burst into the limelight in March this year when she romped to victory at Peterhouse High School ground in Marondera, attracting well wshers to help her acquire a passport in anticipation of more glory in the process.

She needs at least $990 to secure air ticket to Mauritius where the competitions will be held.Her coach Pumulani Dube a renowned sports guru in Chipinge is confident Nyasha will raise the Zimbabwean flag high next year, if she is given the chance. "She is a goal getter. Once an objective is given to her, se wants to achive it. I am confident that individuals and the corperate World will help her achieve a life long dream." Her chaperone ,Edina Siwela , echoed the same sentiments ,Nyasha wants to succed, you can see that by the look of determination she exhibits when she is training."

Nyasha is a down to earth athelete whose sight frame belies her capability. Asked what her ambitions were, she shyly said," i would like to come back home with a medal from the African Youth Championships."

Of course ,she is dreaming big. Julia Sakala, Maria Mutola and others started their athletics careers in the same fashion, today they are household names in the industry. It remains to be seen whether Nyasha Sithole would scale similar heights. Only time will tell but her biggest hurdle so far is to get the ticket.

Muumbe Secondary School head, Mr John Khosa, was full of praise for the young girl who has helped put the school's name on the map. "Nyasha is a hard working. She sticks to the training regime that her coach has drawn including the dietary requirements. However, inasmuch as she school wants to chip in, the financial constraints hinder us. In regard , we move around with a begging bowl to everyone who has interests in the development of sport to chip in for the girl child. It is our solemn hope that she will benefit immensely from the exposure she will get once she participates in the championships."

Those interested in hlping Nyasha Sithole can contact: Muumbe Secondary school sport teacher, Mr Andrew Gwenzi 0775646189. Pumulani Dube of Manzvire Secondary school on 0775852741, Muumbe Secondary school head-Mr John Khosa 078902258 or Edna Siwela on 0773051284, chaspacademy@gmail.com or call +263 773 441 790.

The time has come for the nation to tap talent from far and wide. Kenya and Ethiopia are the atheltics powerhouses today largely to their scouting for talent in the so called back of beyond , the rural areas.