Dar identifies 270 young athletes in major grassroots talent push

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Dar es Salaam Athletics Association (DAA) has identified 270 young athletes for advanced training following a three-day youth track and field competition held in the city.

The event, which took place from Friday to Sunday last week at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, attracted more than 3,000 participants, highlighting growing interest in athletics among young people in the region.

The selected athletes will now enter a structured training programme aimed at sharpening their skills and preparing them for higher-level competitions, including the national championships scheduled for May 29–30 in Kibaha, Coast Region.

DAA Chairman Amani Ngoka said the selection process is being handled by a panel of experts to ensure that only the most deserving athletes are chosen to represent Dar es Salaam at the national stage.

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“Beyond identifying established athletes, we have also discovered promising young talents who we believe will develop into future stars,” Ngoka said.

He added that the initiative is part of broader efforts to build a sustainable pipeline of athletes capable of competing at elite levels, expressing confidence that the final team will represent the region with distinction. Training sessions for the selected athletes are already underway, taking place every Saturday at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium as preparations intensify ahead of the national competition.

Ngoka also commended the overwhelming turnout, noting that the participation of thousands of young people signals a rising enthusiasm for athletics in Dar es Salaam.

“The response has been very encouraging. It shows that more young people are embracing athletics, which is important for the future of the sport,” he said.

Among the standout performers was Salvatory Msafiri, who claimed victory in the 5,000 metres race and praised his fellow competitors for their determination and sportsmanship.

“Winning today’s race is a proud moment for me, but I have great respect for my competitors who pushed me to perform at my best,” he said. “Every athlete demonstrated determination and sportsmanship, which is what makes competitions like this meaningful.”