Former Olympic sprinter Beatrice Masilingi has announced her retirement from athletics and is now set to pursue a career in rugby. The 23-year-old will make her debut with the University of Namibia women's rugby team, the UNAM Steenbokkies, at the Ongos Valley Sevens tournament on Saturday at Hage Geingob Stadium. Masilingi's decision to switch sports comes after she expressed disillusionment with the treatment she received from World Athletics.
Masilingi's athletic background could prove valuable in rugby sevens, where speed, acceleration, and agility are crucial. She represented Namibia at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, reaching the women's 200 meters final and finishing sixth. She also won three silver medals at the 2021 World Athletics U20 Championships. Masilingi's experience in track and field events may give her an edge in her new sport.
The Ongos Valley Sevens tournament has received a boost with Masilingi's participation. The event featured only exhibition matches for women in 2025, with only three teams entering. This year's tournament promises to be more exciting, with a full match schedule and several top teams competing. The Western Cape's Witz Barbarians will return, aiming to win the title for the second time in a row.
Masilingi's debut with UNAM will be an opportunity to test herself in a new sport. She explained that rugby was her first love before she was identified as a sprinter. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to join UNAM 7s. Having played rugby in the past, it's exciting to step back onto the field. My focus right now is just working hard, learning with the squad, and giving my best for the jersey."
The Ongos Sevens tournament will feature several top teams, including the Witz Barbarians, FNB Kudus, and FNB Wanderers. The men's competition will have a series of matches, with the final scheduled for 19:00. The women's final is set for 18:40. Masilingi's UNAM Steenbokkies will face tough competition, including the Wanderers Bokkies and Reho Falcon Bokkies.
Masilingi's decision to join UNAM has generated significant interest in the tournament. Her presence is expected to draw a large crowd, with all eyes on her debut with the UNAM Steenbokkies. The 23-year-old athlete is looking forward to the challenge, saying she is focused on working hard and giving her best for the team.
The Ongos Valley Sevens tournament is set to kick off on Saturday, with a full schedule of matches. The event promises to be an exciting one, with top teams competing and Masilingi making her rugby debut. The tournament will be a great opportunity for teams to test their skills and for spectators to enjoy some exciting rugby action.
Key points
- Former Olympic sprinter Beatrice Masilingi joins UNAM rugby team for Ongos Sevens debut.
