ZIMBABWE-born Dutch triathlete Rachel Klamer is considering a move back to her homeland to invest in and promote local athletes.
Klamer (35), was born in Harare but moved to the Netherlands with her parents at the age of three.
She made a triumphant debut at the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup Troutbeck last weekend, winning gold in the women's elite category.
Despite competing under the Dutch flag, Klamer declared her victory a win for both the Netherlands and Zimbabwe.
Her desire is to bridge the sporting gap between her country of birth and her adopted home. Zimbabwe has struggled for representation at the elite level, with only a handful of athletes competing internationally each season.
Klamer plans to lend a hand in coaching and helping local athletes prepare for international assignments. She also hopes to provide training opportunities for Zimbabwean athletes in the Netherlands.
"I'm getting older, and most of the girls are seven or 11 years younger than me, so I want to start coaching as well," Klamer told The SportsHub.
"My husband is from South Africa, so we would love to work more in this part of the world because there's so much potential."
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Klamer, who was accompanied by her father, was happy to reconnect with old friends and touch base with her roots. Her parents worked as doctors in Regina, Nyanga, about 45 kilometres from the Troutbeck Resort.
"It's great to be back, and I hope a lot of other people come here to race in the future because it's a great place to be," Klamer added.
"I'd love to come back more often."
Klamer enjoyed the race, particularly the swim and bike segments.
"The race was good because I got to swim with another girl," she said.
"And on the bike, I was pushing a bit harder, and it was really fun."
Meanwhile, Sports minister Kirsty Coventry, in a speech read on her behalf by the ministry's permanent secretary, Nicholas Moyo, highlighted the importance of sports in strengthening national bonds.
"From a performance standpoint, we have seen world-class athletes from all over the globe competing at the highest level. This has been a celebration of sport at its finest, and I trust that everyone of you will leave here with memories that will last a lifetime," Coventry said.
"The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup has served as a powerful reminder of the role that sports can play in bridging divisions and fostering mutual understanding. It is through events like these that we strengthen the bonds between nations and build friendships that extend beyond the racecourse. Your presence here has not only helped to promote triathlon but, has also showcased the unity and goodwill that can emerge when we come together through sport."
Schweppes managing director Charles Msipa chronicled Delta Beverages' journey in sponsoring triathlon events.
"When Schweppes first entered the world of triathlon, it was a daring leap into uncharted waters. Over time, we have nurtured this partnership, evolving from Schweppes Water to Bonaqua, and we have witnessed this event blossom into one of Africa's most prestigious sporting spectacles," said Msipa.
"This gathering is more than just a competition; it is a movement that embodies resilience, determination, and the unifying spirit of sport. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion, purpose, and partnership converge."
