'SWAZI BOLT' LEADS STRONG SQUAD TO BOTSWANA

MBABANE – The recently retired Sibusiso ‘Swazi Bolt’ Matsenjwa is at the helm of a 22-member athletics contingent heading to Botswana.

‘Swazi Bolt’ will take on the role of Head Coach, supported by Hamilton Mhlanga.

The team officially departed from the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) offices in Lobamba yesterday. Matsenjwa’s leadership is underpinned by his qualifications, having obtained a Level Two Coaching Certificate, which positions him as the ideal candidate for this pivotal role.

Darius Dlomo, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC), urged the team to return with a minimum of two medals.

“In summary, we are aiming for medals; I heard your coach advocating for you by suggesting you will do your utmost.

“We want at least two medals, and for the remaining athletes, your performance must be the very best,” Dlomo emphasised.

The squad is en route to Botswana to compete in the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Southern Regional Relay Championships in Francistown. Zakhele Dlamini, the President of Athletics Eswatini (AE), highlighted their commitment to development, with aspirations of participating in the World Relays by 2032.

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“We have a range of athletes who are products of the Tinkhundla Talent Search Programme, comprising both juniors and seniors. We firmly believe they will represent us admirably,” Dlamini remarked.

He also expressed gratitude for the backing received from government, notably from the ESRC.

Meanwhile, Matsenjwa, the former fastest man in Eswatini, conveyed his appreciation for the support extended to the athletes and the opportunity to field such a sizeable squad.

It is worth noting that this team is predominantly composed of youth and junior athletes, signifying a bright future for Eswatini athletics. In Botswana, the team will focus on the 8x800m relay, especially for female competitors, alongside the 4x200 metres race to be run by the male sprinters.

Both genders will contest the 4x100 metres, while Bakhona Sikhonze will participate in the 110-metre hurdles.

“We are striving to encourage more athletes to engage in hurdles. I would also like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for the excellent attire we have received,” Matsenjwa stated.

He further expressed excitement about the upcoming competition, particularly as it marks a first for some athletes to participate in an event of this scale.

“I won’t exert too much pressure on them, but they will indeed do their utmost,” Matsenjwa added.

In addition, senior athlete Thandaza Zwane, also heading to Botswana, remarked on the positive preparations, noting that every team member is committed to their training.

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