Online Reporter
Tendai Chara-Zimpapers Sports Hub
AS the body-building season moves forward, few athletes have navigated as much uncertainty as Lesley Payne Gondo.
The reigning national body-building 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.
Gondo shared his current focus and his chances of travelling to the US and what comes next if circumstances do not allow the journey.
This year, the Bulawayo-based body-builder’s target was the International Federation of Body building and Fitness (IFBB) Pro show in Texas (US), scheduled for 14–15 August.
However, Gondo explained that the travel plan is still not guaranteed 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.
He also described the difficulty of securing sponsorship, particularly for international travel.
“There’s no sponsorship,” he said, explaining that even the basics — transport and accommodation — are difficult to fund.
Still, he expressed deep gratitude to a local sponsor that has supported his nutrition plan.
When asked what would happen if he misses the Texas opportunity, Gondo outlined his backup plan.
“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 is consistent: train hard, stay focused, and keep the dream alive.
As Zimbabwe Nationals approaches around end of November, all eyes will be on whether Gondo can turn preparation into podium results — and whether his plans for South Africa can move from “hopes” to reality.
