Online Reporter
Tendai Chara
Zimpapers Sports Hub
LESLEY Payne Gondo is a worried man.
The reigning national bodybuilding wheelchair champion and the first Zimbabwean to achieve IFFF pro status, desperately wants to earn his place in the IFBB Pro circuit and to frequently represent his country on major international stages.
He is set to compete at the International Federation of Body building and Fitness (IFBB) Pro show in Texas, United States, from August 14-15.
However, he might not travel due to the realities athletes face behind the scenes—especially when it comes to transport and accommodation.
“At the moment, I am still preparing in the gym. This is despite the possibility of missing Texas,” Gondo said.
“There’s no sponsorship.”
He said that even the basics like transport and accommodation are difficult to fund. “I would want to compete in two competitions in South Africa in November. The tournaments are going to be held just after the Zimbabwe Nationals.”For Gondo, the Zimbabwe Nationals are more than just a competition — they are a stepping stone to international competitions.
He spoke highly about Thabo Ngulube, his coach.“In me, Thabo is manufacturing a beast. He is currently working on building the body and later on in the year, he will change the focus and concentrate on making the body lean.”
Gondo’s story this year is not about guaranteed access — it is about persistence. With Texas still uncertain, his response has been consistent: train hard, stay focused, and keep the dream alive.
