The Zambia Amateurs Athletics Association (ZAAA) President, Elias Mpondela has called the performance of Muzala Samukonga in the 400 meters men’s race at the First National Bank(FNB) in Botswana Golden Grand Prix as inspiring to young athletes.
In an interview with Lusaka Star, the ZAAA president said Samukonga’s world -record breaking performance is an encouragement and motivation for young and uprising Zambian athletes to work hard.
“Young Athletes must watch and be willing to learn from him and as a matter of fact, it is possible to succeed when you become focused, disciplined and committed,” he said.
Mpondela also applauded the National Team Coaches and the technical bench for impacting the athletes with positivity and making sure that they have a winning mentality.
“The performance is not only good because of the coaches, but also because Muzala himself has decided to make sports his business,” Mpondela said.
Meanwhile, Minister of Youths, Sports and Arts Permanent Secretary, Chileshe Kangwa said the ministry will continue to support Samukonga and other athletes so that more medals are brought to the country.
“Muzala is a good investment we would like to encourage ZAAA to have a good training program for him and as Zambians, we are proud of him,” he said.
Kangwa urged the athlete to remain disciplined and hardworking in order to pass the Previous records so that his family and the nation are helped economically.
“Young athletes should take their gifts seriously and discipline themselves so that they can be sustained,” Kangwa said.
During his awe-inspiring performance, samukonga shattered the e previous record with an astounding time 44.66 seconds, solidifying his title as the world’s fastest runner, as recognized by the World Athletics (WA).