Malawi scoops 13 medals in Egypt
Malawi’s representatives at the inaugural Special Olympics Pan African Games had a tournament to remember as they hauled an impressive 13 medals across various categories during the week-long event which ended Friday in Cairo, Egypt.
Agness Lekaleka, Clara Phiri, Wema Supuliyano, Phylis Supuliyano and Desire Namaona flew the Malawi flag at the continental showpiece and finished with eight gold, three silver and two bronze.
Lekaleka won gold in 100 and 200 metres categories, and the 4×100 metres relay race while Phiri scooped bronze in the 100 metres and gold in the 4×100 metres relay.
Wema lifted silver in the 800 and 1,500 metres categories, and gold in the 4×100 metres relay whereas Phylis earned silver in the 100 metres category and bronze in the 200 metres. She also got gold in the 4×100 metres relay.
Namaona was also successful as she earned gold medals in the 100 metres and the 4×100 metres relay in addition to winning silver in the 200 metres contest.
Speaking from the North African country, Special Olympics Malawi Sports Director Doris Suwedi, who travelled as the athletes’ coach, said they worked hard to deliver despite going to the competition without upkeep allowances.
“We have gone through a big struggle for resources right from our preparations back home. It was difficult for us to camp together as Team Malawi because we had no money. But in the face of limited support, the athletes gave out their best and fought for mother Malawi.
“It is encouraging that our efforts have been appreciated by our High Commissioner here in Egypt who has given us $200 [about K150,000]. We were also invited for a luncheon by a Malawian who is based here in Egypt [Loveness Kaunda],” Suwedi said.
The athletes are expected back home today through Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe.
