The Namibia Schools Sport Union (NSSU) National Athletics Championships concluded today at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek, bringing together young athletes from all 14 regions of the country. Despite initial logistical delays that saw some regions arrive late, the event proceeded with a high level of competition across various track and field disciplines.
The championships, which serve as a critical platform for talent identification, also featured an official opening ceremony once all regional teams were present. Chief Administrator of the Namibia Sport Commission, Freddy Mwiya, emphasized the need for a sustained development structure to ensure that the talent identified at these games is nurtured year-round."After identifying these athletes, we normally have athletics from January up to April. What happens in June? What happens in July? There's a need for us going forward to establish what we call a national squad for athletics every year," Mwiya explained. "This gives athletes a sense that they must prepare themselves. When the following year comes, they do not start from where they were, but they move forward."
On the track, standout performances highlighted the depth of talent in the youth categories. Zoey Basson, representing the Khomas Region, expressed her pride in securing victories across multiple sprinting events."I'm really proud. I'm under 15, so the competition is tough. I won the 100 and 200 metres, so the pressure is on, but I feel really proud of myself," Basson said.
The championships also prioritized inclusivity, with para-athletes competing in various heats. Alberto Garunab, a T13 athlete from the Khomas Region, echoed the sentiment of pride after a successful campaign on the track."I'm really proud. I'm under 15, so it's tough competition. I also won the 100 and 200 metres, and I feel really proud of myself," Garunab noted.
Organizers confirmed that all 14 regions successfully participated, overcoming early challenges to complete the scheduled events. With the national championships now concluded, the focus shifts to the long-term development and training of the athletes identified during the competition.