THE five day Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) games have ended today, with Zambian atheletes minting no gold.
The second edition of the under 18 and under 20 games, which were taking place at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, attracted atheletes from 45 African countries.
There were 721 athletes and about 300 officials at the event.
The best Zambian atheletes could manage is a few silver and bronze medals.
On most days during the games, Zambians in the terraces had no option but to simply cheer Kenyans, Ethiopians, Nigerians and South Africans, who put up an exceptional record, where running is concerned.
From time to time, as the competition unfolded, the national anthems of the aforementioned countries became familiar to the ears, as their gold medalists were being awarded.
The only time the Zambian national anthem was sang is when President Hakainde Hichilema officially opened the CAA games on Saturday, April 29, and during the official closing ceremony.
The games were being held under the auspices of the Zambia Athletics (ZA) and the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts.
Meanwhile, there was a colourful closing ceremony on Levy Mwanawasa Stadium pitch this evening.
Artistes such as Chile One, Natasha, Chef 187, Towela, Y Celeb, among others, spiced up the event.
Copperbelt Province minister Elisha Matambo said the CAA games offered joy and disappointment to the atheletes and their supporters.
“This is what sport is all about,” said Matambo, adding that the CAA games showed how Africans can relate, even through a competition.
Meanwhile, ZA president Elias Mpondela said: “we are very proud that the event has ended as a great success.”
“This event was not about Zambia but Africa. It was also about introducing athletics to Zambia and Zambia to athletics,” said Mpondela.
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts permanent secretary Kangwa Chileshe was also present.
Kalemba May 4, 2023
