Ngonidzashe Makusha, Zimbabwean sprinter and long jumper
Ngonidzashe Makusha, born on March 11, 1987, is a distinguished Zimbabwean athlete renowned for his prowess as both a sprinter and a long jumper. He holds the prestigious national records for Zimbabwe in both the 100-meter dash and the long jump, with remarkable times and distances that underscore his exceptional talent and dedication. His record-setting 100m sprint was achieved in an astonishing 9.89 seconds (with a wind assistance of +1.3 m/s), while his monumental long jump reached 8.40 meters (with 0.0 m/s wind). Both of these incredible feats took place during the highly competitive 2011 NCAA Division I Championships held in Des Moines, Iowa. It was at this event that Makusha truly cemented his legacy, not only by setting national records but also by achieving a rare and spectacular "double" – winning both the 100m and the long jump titles.

A Historic Double at the NCAA Championships

The 2011 NCAA Division I Championships became a landmark moment in track and field history, largely thanks to Ngonidzashe Makusha's unforgettable performance. His victory in both the 100-meter sprint and the long jump earned him two gold medals and placed him in an exclusive club of collegiate athletes. Following this double victory, Makusha became one of only four, now five, athletes in the history of the NCAA championships to achieve this extraordinary combination of speed and agility. He joined an elite pantheon of legends, standing alongside illustrious names such as DeHart Hubbard (who first achieved the double in 1925), the unparalleled Jesse Owens (who accomplished it twice, in 1935 and 1936), the iconic Carl Lewis (1981), and more recently, Jarrion Lawson (2016). This achievement not only highlighted Makusha's individual brilliance but also underscored the immense physical and mental fortitude required to excel at the highest level in two distinct disciplines.

Accolades and Recognition: The Bowerman Award

Makusha's exceptional year in 2011 did not go unnoticed, and his collegiate excellence was further celebrated with one of the most prestigious honors in collegiate track & field. In recognition of his outstanding achievements and dominant performances, Ngonidzashe Makusha was named the men's winner of The Bowerman award. This highly coveted accolade is presented annually to the top collegiate track & field athlete of the year, symbolizing the pinnacle of individual accomplishment and impact within the sport at the university level. Winning The Bowerman solidified his status as not just a record-breaker, but as the premier talent in collegiate athletics during that remarkable season, bringing significant attention to Zimbabwean track and field on the global stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ngonidzashe Makusha

Who is Ngonidzashe Makusha?

Ngonidzashe Makusha is a highly acclaimed Zimbabwean sprinter and long jumper, known for holding national records and achieving significant success in international collegiate competitions.

When was Ngonidzashe Makusha born?

He was born on March 11, 1987.

What national records does he hold for Zimbabwe?

Ngonidzashe Makusha holds the Zimbabwean national records for the 100-meter dash (9.89 seconds) and the long jump (8.40 meters).

When and where did he achieve these record performances?

Both of his national record performances were achieved during the 2011 NCAA Division I Championships in Des Moines, Iowa.

What is the "100m long jump double" he achieved?

The "100m long jump double" refers to his accomplishment of winning both the 100-meter sprint and the long jump titles at the same NCAA championships, a feat achieved by only a handful of athletes in history.

Who are some of the other athletes to achieve this double?

He joined an exclusive list including DeHart Hubbard, Jesse Owens, Carl Lewis, and Jarrion Lawson.

What is The Bowerman award?

The Bowerman is an annual award presented to the top collegiate track & field athlete of the year, recognizing outstanding performance and impact.

Did Ngonidzashe Makusha win The Bowerman?

Yes, he was named the men's winner of The Bowerman in 2011.