By Peter Fote in Windhoek, Namibia:
Malawian athletes Pretoria Kalimba and Verani Nancy Anastanzio wrote their own piece of history after winning gold medals for Team Malawi at the ongoing African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Games in Windhoek, Namibia, Wednesday.
Kalimba produced a five-star performance as she won a gold medal in women’s E-football following a 2-0 victory over Zimbabwean Judith Makina.
Compatriot Omega Kachale won a silver medal in E-Sport in another category.
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In a related development Anastanzio won a gold medal in the 100 metres race after clocking the distance in 14. 23 seconds in Special Olympics.
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Not far behind was compatriot Tiyanjane Henry Kondowe, who won a silver medal after clocking the same distance in 14.55 seconds.
The duo outpaced tough opponents from Namibia, eSwatini and Botswana, including Angeline Sihova, Gottfried Aina, Bafundzile Dlamini, Neliswa, Mkhabela and Tlando Mojomatsi.
In another development, Paralympics athlete Sandra Mughogho clinched a silver medal in the ladies’ category.
Byson Maseko and Wongani Chawinga won a silver and bronze medal, respectively, in the 400 metres T13.
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Blessings Chimbayo won a silver medal in the men’s category in Special Olympics.
Chimbayo was excited with the victory.
“I am really motivated with the win. I will continue working hard,” Chimbayo said.
There was also good news for Malawian judo athlete Lawrence Mpulila as he won a bronze medal.
Meanwhile, Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS) Director of Sports and Recreation Development Ivy Chinangwa has hailed the performance of the athletes.
“The athletes are working hard. This outstanding performance will surely inspire and motivate our athletes to strive for even greater success in the future,” Chinangwa said.
National Director for Special Olympics Malawi (NDSM) Enid Mauluka was happy with the athletes.
“We appreciate all the hard work and dedication. We are proud of them,” Mauluka said.
Wednesday, Team Malawi won eight medals.
