The ManicaPost
Takudzwa Manzero
Sports Correspondent
HOLY Family Secondary School of Buhera’s learner, Marvelous Shoniwa sprung a major surprise when she scooped a gold medal in the Under-15 long category at the National Association of School Head (NASH) national competitions held in Marondera recently.
The Form Two learner outshone athletes from nine other provinces and contributed to Manicaland’s tally of 12 gold medals.
Speaking to Post Sport, an exuberant Marvelous expressed joy at being crowned the champion.
She said: “I am excited to be the champion. I participated in the competitions with the aim of doing my best for my province. I came out tops against other elite athletes. It was through God’s grace.
“I am buoyed by this gold medal which has fuelled my determination to spring another surprise. The school administration has been supportive throughout the journey and have been motivating the birth of my international greatness in Zambia.
“God willing, I am a proceeding to the COSASSA athletics competitions in Ndola, Zambia where I will represent Holy Family Secondary School, Manicaland and Zimbabwe at large.”
Shoniwa’s victory marks a ground breaking feat for a district which has been plagued by lack of sporting achievements and dry climatic conditions.
Holy Family Secondary School is famed for its production units of horticultural products that include Chibili tomatoes and apiculture. Holy Family Secondary School head, Langton Chikakasaid he was impressed by the girl’s top-notch performance. He said: “As a school, we are excited about her performance which has put us on the national athletics map. We are proud of Marvelous’ achievement.
“She is a star, and the epitome of our motto: ‘Dream, Believe and Achieve’. We are really excited that the girl did, not only bring a gold medal, but also joy to the school.”
Acting BuheraDistrict Schools Inspector, TinavanhuMutomba said: “As the parent Primary and Secondary Education Ministry, we applaud the school head, administration and Marvelous’ parents for supporting her through her sporting journey. The school is commended for aligning to the updated competence based curriculum which nurtures athletes with fundamental educational skills.”
