Swimmer Moyo finishes 4th at World Aquatics
By Cecilia Nayame
SWIMMER Zach Moyo has finished on a disappointing note, missing on his personal best (PB) in the 50m breaststroke at the ongoing World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
Moyo, whose national record was at 28.90seconds before his race yesterday at the Singapore Sports Hub, recorded 29.04seconds to finish on fourth position in the heat, reducing by 0.14 seconds from his usual time.
And Coach Ian Stephenson who confirmed the results from Singapore yesterday, expressed happiness with Moyo’s performance despite the failure to beat his personal best.
He said it was important that the junior athlete had continued gaining exposure to bigger events such as the World Aquatics Championship.
“The performance was a measured and mature swim that reflected not just talent but a deep understanding of his race,” Stephenson said.
He expressed confidence that Moyo would be an athlete to reckon with in the future.
“Coming off a national record in the 100m breaststroke, Zach has shown that he can handle pressure, stay composed and compete with the best swimmers in the world,” he said.
Stephenson urged the swimmer to continue working hard.
“More than the times, it’s his mindset and growth that have stood out for him. A young athlete already racing with clarity, purpose and pride. The journey has just begun for him,” he said.
Stephenson said Moyo would now concentrate on his training to prepare for future events.
“It’s been an honour to watch him (Moyo) step up and represent Zambia well at this stage. His championship may be done today but the journey is far from over,” he said.
Stephenson said all swimmers would be under intense training to prepare for the 2026 Commonwealth Games as well as All Africa Games among other international competitions.
“Next for him is a well-deserved break and recovery phase, and then focusing on training as he continues to build towards future meets, both regional and international,” he said
Moyo beat his PB in the 100m breaststroke touching the wall in 1.05.64minute from 1.06.87minute.
Zambia’s last race will be on Friday when Damien Shamambo competes in the 50m freestyle.
Shamambo is currently holding a national record of 23.86 seconds.
