BY THOBILE NDLANGAMANDLA (INTERN)
LOBAMBA – Five promising young athletes will represent Eswatini at a World Athletics-supported competition in Mauritius from Friday, June 5, 2026, to Sunday, June 7, 2026, following their successful qualification at the National Junior Championships.
The athletes were officially presented ahead of their departure by the Athletic Association of Eswatini, which expressed appreciation to the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association and the Eswatini National Sports Council for their continued support of athletics development in the country.
The team will be accompanied by travelling coach Siyabonga Ngwenya and consists of Yoliswa Simelane (18), who will compete in the 100m and 200m events, Mvuselelo Mkhwanazi (17), who will participate in the 400m race, Earnshaw Sibonakaliso who will participate in 800m and 1500m as well as Machawe Mahlalela and Bandzile Simelane, who will both compete in the 100m and 200m events.
Speaking during the send-off, the President of the Athletic Association of Eswatini said the organisation had hoped to send five athletes to the competition but was only able to send four due to financial challenges.
“We appreciate the support we continue to receive from our partners. Their commitment allows us to develop athletics and ensure our athletes participate in international competitions where they can gain valuable experience,” he said.
He explained that the athletes earned their places in the team through outstanding performances at the National Junior Championships and will now have the opportunity to compete against some of the best young athletes from across the region.
The president added that the competition would provide a platform for the athletes to build their profiles and showcase their talent on the international stage. He further revealed that one of the athletes could earn an opportunity to participate in the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.
“This competition will help our athletes gain exposure and raise their profiles internationally while proudly representing Eswatini,” he said.
The four athletes are expected to carry the nation’s hopes as they compete in Mauritius and continue their journey towards greater achievements in athletics.
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