AAM earmarks Simwaka for 2022 C’Wealth Games

Athletics Association of Malawi (AAM) has expressed optimism that Asimenye Simwaka will make it to the 2022 Commonwealth Games despite her military training commitment in Salima.

The versatile athlete, who also plays for the Malawi National Women’s Football team, is undergoing training at Malawi Armed Forces College (Mafco).

AAM general secretary Frank Chitembeya said they would request Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to release her for the Games.

He said: “Despite Asimenye undergoing training at Mafco after joining MDF, we are confident that she will be released to represent the country.”

Simwaka and Lifa are part of a 10-member squad AAM has assembled for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England.

Asked if her absence from the AAM camp may not affect her performance, Chitembeya said the MDF training can help in her preparations.

He said: “Actually, it’s an advantage to her. There are very good athletics coaches at MDF who can assist her in her preparations.”

Simwaka won the MDF Sports Festival’s women 100 metres (m) at the weekend at Mafco, and Chitembeya said this proves that the training is helping her.

On their part, MDF say they will ‘respond accordingly’ when they get a request from AAM.

MDF spokesperson Major Emmanuel Mlelemba on Thursday said they were yet to receive a request from AAM.

He said: “Right now we are not aware of the competitions. We haven’t received any request. If we do, we will respond accordingly.”

Simwaka was earmarked for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in, England scheduled for July 28 to August 8.

She, alongside compatriot Stern Lifa, also qualified for the Africa Championship in Mauritius on June 5.