DAR ES SALAAM: MWAHIJA Kisoma departed Tanzania earlier today to represent the nation in two major international Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) championships to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a historic first for Tanzania in this growing sport.
Representing Mzumbe University at the Sports Federation of Public Organisations, Inter Parastatal and Ministries (SHIMMUTA) Games, she concluded her final preparations before the international stage.
Speaking with ‘Daily News’ over the weekend during her participation in the SHIMMUTA Games 2024 in Tanga, Kisoma expressed confidence in her abilities and readiness for the challenge ahead.
“Preparation has been going well. I can say that I am well-prepared. I am going to compete, not just participate,” said Kisoma.
“I understand that it is a new challenge it’s not going to be an easy ride but also not too tough. My focus is to bring home the title and put Tanzania in the spotlight,” she said.
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Kisoma expresses her ambition to serve as a role model for aspiring athletes and encourage others to embrace OCR.
She used the SHIMMUTA Games as a final trial, where she delivered an outstanding performance, earning a gold medal in the 800m race and silver medals in the 1500m and 5000m races.
A dedicated athlete and employee of Mzumbe University in Morogoro, Kisoma has consistently demonstrated her prowess in athletics.
Her participation in the upcoming championships reflects her unwavering commitment to the sport and highlights the university’s support for its athletes.
OCR is a demanding sport where competitors, travelling on foot, must overcome a series of physical obstacles.
Kisoma is set to compete in two prestigious events: The Spartan Beast World Championship for Women from November 28 to December 1, 2024, in Abu Dhabi and the Dubai World Obstacle Championships (DWOC), featuring the 2500m Elite and 5000m Elite categories, from December 5 to 8, 2024, in Dubai.
Both events are sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Sports Obstacles (FISO), underscoring their global significance.
However, Kisoma is no stranger to international competition. An accomplished long-distance runner, she has represented Tanzania in various marathons and ultramarathons, including the Comrades Marathon in South Africa and the Tanzania-India Friendship Run (127km).
With her dedication and talent, Kisoma is poised to make a remarkable impact, not only for herself but also for Tanzania’s recognition in the global OCR arena.
