Melody Chiwandika
By Julius Manganda
Rising sprint sensation Melody Chiwandika (19) continued her impressive ascent today after storming to first place in the 150m sprint at the Harare Athletics Board Selection and Conditioning Event held at the University of Zimbabwe.
Affectionately known as “Boltess,” the teenage sprinter once again lived up to her nickname, taking a significant step toward qualification for the national championships.
Chiwandika currently represents Movement Athletic Club in Highfield, where she trains under the guidance of coach Bezha.
Originally from Ushewokunze in Harare South, Melody began her athletics journey in Grade 6 at Rujeko Primary School. However, it was during her Form One year at Prince of Peace College that she fully committed to short-distance sprinting — a decision that has fuelled her steady rise in Zimbabwean athletics.
Earlier this year, she competed in the Southern Region Senior Athletics Championships, featuring in the relay team that finished fifth. She also recently impressed in the Zim Sports 4ED 5km race at Zimbabwe Grounds, taking a strong second place.
Reflecting on her latest victory at UZ, Melody said:
“It’s been months of hard training at Zimbabwe Grounds. Winning today means so much to me. I’m grateful to my coach, my training partners, and everyone who believes in me.”
Her nickname, inspired by Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt, speaks both to her blistering pace and her lofty ambitions.
“I see myself in him. I want to break records, just like he did,” she said with confidence.
Melody credits her father, Mr. Albert Chiwandika, as her greatest source of inspiration and unwavering support.
“My inspiration comes from my dad. He inspires me a lot. He always believes in me and is very supportive. He buys me proper training gear and even gives me money for transport. I dedicate every win to him.”
With her daily training sessions at the iconic Zimbabwe Grounds sharpening her speed and discipline, Melody “Boltess” Chiwandika is fast emerging as one of Zimbabwe’s most promising young sprinters — a star well on her way to making her mark on the national stage.
