Asimenye Simwaka dared ahead of Grand Prix debut
Malawi Defence Force athlete Asimenye Simwaka has been challenged to improve her personal best record when she makes her debut at the Golden Grand Prix to be held in Gaborone, Botswana today.
Asimenye’s coach Pachisi Nyasulu said they are hoping that the athlete can qualify for the World Championship if she impresses today.
“Training was good. Asimenye is in good shape and we are hoping for the best. Definitely we are going for a win that is what we are targeting. As a coach, I want her to beat her personal best record. “It is the opening of the season and we know that sometimes it is not easy being a seasonal opener. The way they have prepared for a long time. I am hopeful she can break her own time. If she does well, we can qualify for the World Championship,” he said.
The competition attracts top eight athletes in the world and another top eight set from Africa.
Asimenye has been invited to compete following her top six finish at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 400m.
The FNBB Golden Grand Prix is a Track and Field meeting for world class professional athletes and is part of a global circuit.
However, Asimenye was required to pay for her own transportation and accommodation as advised by the organisers of the event.
Malawi Olympic Committee (Moc) came to the rescue of the athlete with support from International Olympic Solidarity.
“This one is under Scholarship for Athletes Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” Moc Director Naomi Chinatu said.
