Togo-Maheza Anaming: "Writing my own story in the world of athletics..."

SNA: Who is Maheza Anaming?

My name is Maheza Anaming. I'm a long-distance and middle-distance runner.

Tell us a little about your career as an athlete.

I started athletics at secondary school in Sotouboua (central Togo). Later I had the chance to go to Senegal. It was there that I ran my very first race over 21 km, and I finished 1st. My career really began with that Eiffage marathon, the half-marathon option. I've taken part in many other competitions in Senegal, in Gambia, in Togo and even in Turkey. In most competitions I've always finished in the top three. In any case, I've always been well placed.

You surely have a speciality between long-distance and middle-distance running?

It's the half-marathon, because I feel more comfortable over long distances than over short ones.

In your view, what are the strengths of Togolese athletics?

First of all, it's the athletes' goals. Then there's the coaching and support, through the guidelines of the Togolese Athletics Federation and members of the National Olympic Committee of Togo (CNOT). These are the things that keep us on our feet and give us strength.

"My role model is the Ethiopian athlete Almaz Ayana Eba"

And what are Maheza Anaming's own strengths?

My strength is my determination, my goal. What I want to win when I take part in a competition. Why I have to run; why I have to keep training.

Who is Maheza Anaming's role model as an athlete?

My role model is the Ethiopian athlete Almaz Ayana Eba, a long-distance specialist and 5000m world champion. I see a lot of myself in her. I dream of an excellent career like hers. I admit that Almaz Ayana Eba inspires me a lot because of her resilience in races, despite her small stature (1.66 m) and her speed.

Your biggest dream?

To win an Olympic medal. That is, to make my own history in the world of athletics. The rest is in God's hands.

What has been your best performance so far?

My best performance so far is a recent one. It was my latest race, the women's 10 km in Dakar, Senegal, where I clocked 36 minutes. That shows I have 2 minutes to find to reach the qualifying standard. Before that time, I was running around 41 or 42 minutes or so. That race gave me confidence and reassured me that I can still move forward.

You are currently in Tunisia representing your country at the 2nd edition of the African Beach Games. What does this competition mean to you?

It's an opportunity for me. A perfect chance to show more of what I can do and prove the talent God has given me. I'm very determined. I respect everything. I'm following my programme closely.

What are your goals at these African Beach Games?

To achieve the 10000m qualifying standard, which is 34 minutes, to qualify for the Paris Olympic Games. I tell myself it's my only chance, so I'm going to give it everything to achieve that goal.

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