Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
BODYBUILDER Tinotenda Ryan Gumbo has ended his two-year hiatus from active competition and will return to the stage this year on both the local and international scenes.
The Fitness First Gym athlete was away for two years pursuing studies in Cape Town, South Africa. Gumbo, the owner of Trysupps, a nutrition and supplement shop, said he is back and is looking forward to the 2026 season.
“I am happy that I will be back on the stage again this year after two solid years away. I have been away in Cape Town, South Africa, where I was pursuing my studies and I look forward to the year ahead. I had not left body building completely but I was just not competing as I had some other commitments. “I am ready for 2026 season where I am looking forward to compete in both the local and international contests.
“It has been hard not to be on the stage for so many years but I think the time has come for me to do what I like best, that is fitness physique.”
He added:“In 2024, I was mainly focusing on my studies and 2025 has been more about me preparing myself for a big comeback and making sure I am in my best condition.
“It’s good that I managed to rest because as a bodybuilder, sometimes it’s good to give yourself a rest, especially for career progression.”Through his nutrition and supplements company, Gumbo has also begun to give back to the sport, as the company was the 2022 Novice Zimbabwe title sponsor.
“Bodybuilding is my passion and I have been into it for so many years. I have passion for athletes’ development and that is why I always support contests like the Mr Novice, which is for beginners.
“I am going to make history by becoming the first Men’s Physique athlete to get an international pro-card and will make sure that Blessing “CC Banks” Sithole’s dominance in the category is finished.
“The past two years my main rival Sithole, whom I have competed with on several occasions, was on top of the game and lacked competition.“I have already started to train and I am always busy in the gym. I am grateful to Fitness First Gym where I am training,” said Gumbo.
