Africa Genesis Archery- Zim

THE Zimbabwe archery team showcased impressive skill and determination at the recent Region 5 tournament held in Walvis Bay, Namibia, from August 22 to 24.

Competing against teams from Zambia, South Africa, Botswana and hosts, Namibia, Zimbabwe fielded two robust squads; a national team and a development team, each consisting of 16 archers.

The tournament, known for its competitive edge and prestigious medals, saw Zimbabwe’s development team securing remarkable victories.

They clinched third place overall in the 3D (animals) category and earned silver medals in the Bullseye event.

Notably, Jonathan Howard stood out, achieving bronze medals in both 3D and Bullseye, a gold medal for combined scores, and an overall bronze with his cumulative performance.

The national team also delivered a commendable performance, winning bronze in the 3D category.

Andrew Manning emerged as a prominent contender, ranking 9th in Africa based on his individual scores.

Guided by coaches Rob Jackson, Simon Allot, Michael Philp and Ray Funani, and buoyed by a small team of supporters consisting mostly of teachers and families of the players, the Zimbabwean archers demonstrated their prowess and potential for growth.

Building on this success, Zimbabwe hopes to retain many team members next year and inspire others to develop an interest in the sport.

Zimbabwe is planning to bid for hosting the 2026 championships, with a competitive proposal expected by November 2024.

Botswana, another strong contender, will also be bidding.

South Africa emerged the overall winners of the tournament, with hosts Namibia delivering a determined and impressive performance.

The event not only highlighted Zimbabwe’s talent, but also set the stage for future success, fostering a vibrant archery community ready to soar to new heights.

*Zimbabwe’s national team was made up of:*
– Andrew Manning
– Savannah Hunter
– Tapiwa Dzvairo
– Isabella Nicolle
– Musa Kurenzvi
– Devam Patel
– Vuso Mlambo
– Matthew Hildebrand
– Isabella Philp
– Margaret Songore
– Matthew Gratwicke
– Juliet Whitaker
– Ivy-Blue Nice
– Mandisa Mucheki
– Tayla Logan
– Khia Yatras

*The Zimbabwe Development Team had:*
– Jonathan Howard
– Nathan Chanakira
– Kaden Hahn
– Madison Marshall
– Busi Ndlovu
– Blaise Fouche
– Riaan Bezuidenhout
– Lianna Mashumba
– Nonhlanhla Nyathi
– Lizzy Whitaker
– Christiano Uriri
– Rutendo Gambara
– Melissa Zambe
– Garth Walraven
– Grace Makwangudze
– Noku Chandiwana

The coaches were:
– Rob Jackson
– Simon Allot
– Michael Philip
– Ray Funani

AGA Zim most recent BAI certification day. Congratulations to the 9 prospective coaches who after a day of training and the 100 question exam, became Basic Archery Coaches ready to lead their schools forward into 2024 on the range.

Africa Genesis Archery Zimbabwe Tournament hosted @ Peterhouse Boys School. !st October 2023

Opening ceremony of the 2022 AGA Fed tournament