Zebaldt Ngaruka
OZOMBOUVAPA - Epukiro Secondary School (SS) won the zonal athletics competition organised by Morukutu Primary School (PS) based in Epukiro constituency 's Otjijarua village recently.
The athletes participated in 100 meters (m), 200m, 800m, 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, high jump, shot put, discus, and javelin.
In an interview with the New Era Sports desk, Abiut Kazondunge, who is the sports organiser at Morukutu PS, said the competition is aimed at promoting athletic sports amongst schools in the constituency
"This event is also a showpiece where the best athletes are selected to represent Epukiro constituency at the upcoming regional competition in Gobabis," Kazondunge explained.
Epukiro SS top the zonal ranking followed by Okovimburu's Good Hope PS in second place while Omuhaturua PS from Otjimanangombe claimed the third place in the ranking.
Eiseb PS from Otjombinde settled for fourth position, whereas the hosts Morukutu PS came fifth despite home ground advantage.
Kazondunge added that the constituency is talented despite a lack of sports facilities.
"We struggled for long with sports facilities at schools, but by the will of God, everything went smoothly. The spirit of togetherness and sportsmanship was the order of the day, which is good for the development of sports in our constituency," echoed the organiser.
Epukiro's sports organiser, Eerike Kamperipa, said his Epukiro team victories in Otjijarua are attributed to the hard work and support from the school management
"We trained hard three weeks prior to the event, learners show commitment and willingness to display their talents. I am happy for the outcome, and we hope to do better at the regional competition.
Pauldia Tjerivanga from Good Hope Primary said her school performed well and placed second in the ranking.
"We got support from parents and which is good motivation for the athletes," Tjerivanga commented.
She, however, is not satisfied with the sports field at Otjijarua as it hinders the performance of athletes due to its surface.
"It is high time for sponsors come on board and help rural sports facilities. We are really talented but lack facilities to showcase our talents here," concluded Tjerivanga, who is also a sports organiser at Okovimburu based school.
- zngaruka@yahoo.com