The championships are pencilled-in for the end of next month, but the Muumbe Secondary School student was still on a zero-budget earlier this week. “I want to fly my country’s flag high if I manage to get money to go and participate at the African youth’s championship,” said the desperate Sithole in an interview recently.
“I have been appealing to well-wishers to help me realize my dream of competing at this international tournament, which would surely open doors for me, but nothing has come so far, but I am not losing hope. I am still training for the tournament, in case of a last-minute sponsor coming forward. Should I manage to participate, I am hopeful of returning with a medal.”
Her school teacher, Andrew Gwenzi, also appealed to the community to help the girl child realise her dream.
“We believe she can make a living through the sport, as she is academically challenged,” said the teacher. “Athletics is where her talent lies and getting empowerment in that field would not reward only her, but the country as well. I have worked closely with Sithole’s trainer, Philani Dube, who assured me that if Sithole is supported in the coming 10 years, she would be a force to reckon with at international level.”
Her spirit still not dampened, Sithole last week won the 300 metres hurdles at the National Athletic of Secondary Heads (NASH) in Rusape.
The 15-year-old Form two pupil from Chipinge District is the reigning NASH Under-16 Girls 300m hurdles champion. She burst into the limelight in March last year, when she romped to victory at the Peterhouse High School ground in Marondera.
She has already attracted a well-wisher who helped her acquire a passport in anticipation of international glory. Those interested in helping Sithole can contact Pumulani Dube of Manzvire Secondary School on +263 (0)775852741. They can also contact the head of Muumbe Secondary School, Mr John Khosa on +263 (0) or Edna Siwela on +263 (0)773051284 Teacher Andrew Gwenzi +263 (0) 77 564 6189
Post published in: Sport