The Herald
29 June 2009
THE Government has saluted long-distance runner Stephen Muzhingi for winning the Comrades Marathon in South Africa last month, writes Ellina Mhlanga.
In his congratulatory speech, Education, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister David Coltart said achievements being made by Zimbabwean sportsmen and women would play an important role in building a positive image of the country.
“It is good when Zimbabwean men and women raise the flag high and it is important to rebrand Zimbabwe through sport because the country has been associated with things that are not good.
“We are delighted with what you (Muzhingi) have achieved for the country and we are certainly proud of the achievement.
“I’m going to be watching closely next year’s race and hope you will break the record and with the 2012 Olympics coming you will focus on that. “I will be following your exploits very closely,” Coltart told Muzhingi.
Coltart also said it was important for the Government to seek out sporting talent.
“It is important that we as the Government identify sporting icons as they can achieve a lot in building Zimbabwe’s image.
“It also important to identify and nurture talent at an early stage — that’s why education is linked to sport.
“However, as the education system was deteriorating, it also affected sports and we will try and improve sport in schools,” said Coltart.
He, however, lamented the fact that sometimes people fail to realise the magnitude of such an achievement.
Muzhingi said his victory in South Africa was a great achievement for him as he had been participating in the race for the past five years.
“I’m very happy to be the first Zimbabwean to win the race and beating the defending champion.
“I would like to break the current record and set a record that will stand for more than 21 years,” Muzhingi said.
He encouraged upcoming athletes to work hard and focus on their careers and not countenance failure.