NAAZ warn athletes against drugs
THE National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) has implored athletes to shun using drugs on and off the track and maintain the highest degree of discipline.
Naaz president Tendai Tagara was speaking after the successful Econet Victoria Falls Marathon on Sunday.
His words come at a time when the country is making serious efforts to fight the scourge of drugs and substance abuse.
President Mnangagwa recently launched the Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) in a bold move to tackle the growing scourge of drug and substance abuse.
The annual event saw 5 190 athletes registering from around the world for its 16th edition, which Tagara said was a huge success.
There were no known reports of abuse of drugs by athletes at the event which closed with a musical show in the evening to allow runners and fans to cool off and interact.
In an interview, Tagara commended the organisers for the event that has grown from strength to strength, growing from 600 runners in its first year to over 5 000 for the 16th edition.
Organisers said they were overwhelmed by last-minute inquiries for registration by runners.
Tagara said the Victoria Falls Marathon was a perfect training platform for the country’s runners.
“The Victoria Falls Marathon is very important in our calendar as it is the race in which we gauge our 42km runners to look at how strong they are. The marathon plays a critical significance in terms of preparations.
“I want to thank all athletes that participated today and I am calling more athletes to use the Victoria Falls Marathon because it has so many events which can bring athletes together. I reiterate the call for more athletes to come. May I remind all athletes that please let us desist from the use of drugs. Make sure you are clean, you participate, socialise, and learn the positive things and positive living from others.”
He said the event has one of the perfect terrains.
The route was measured by an international marker who came from South Africa, hence it meets international standards.
Tagara said the marathon is a family event as it includes several activities that are fit for family consumption.
“So the terrain is very good and meets the world athletics requirements for a good marathon that can be used as a qualifier for major championships.
This marathon is a family gathering and an event that is all-encompassing for the future. So the future champions are those who are running the fun run.
Tendai Zimuto, who won the 42.2km full marathon, is preparing for the World Championships in Tokyo next year while Isaac Mpofu, the 21.1km half marathon winner, will carry the country’s flag at the Olympics in Paris next month.
Both are in camp.