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Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE Old Mutual Hwange Colliery Company (HCC) sports day takes place today as part of the mining company’s strategy of using sport as a tool to console its employees following the tragic events of the 1972 Kamandama Mine disaster.

The disaster killed 427 miners following an underground methane gas explosion.

“The games came into being after the Kamandama Mine Disaster of 1972 where organisations such as Old Mutual in partnership with RM Insurance and Cabs initiated a sports day as a way of consoling the community from their loss. Since then, Old Mutual has been bankrolling this event. The games are spread out across 10 disciplines that include badminton, basketball, bowling, darts, golf, squash, tennis, netball, men’s and ladies’ soccer,” said HCC corporate affairs manager Rugare Dobhie.

She said despite today’s activities the company continues to channel resources towards development of sports within its community and also boasts of one of the oldest clubs in the Premier Soccer League. It has also churned out great sportspersons on the athletics front and is in the process of renovating a number of its vast sporting facilities.

Old Mutual executives as well as HCC’s senior management are expected to grace the prize giving ceremony at the Edmund Davies Hall this evening. — @skhumoyo2000.