Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe karate team, which took part in this year’s edition of the JKS karate tournament in Brazil, is expected back home today.
The eight-member team found the going tough at the tourney.
Top karateka Sensei Natalie Toweel, however, won a gold medal in the veterans’ category.
Toweel was crowned the champion in the women’s kumite category.
She also won a silver medal in kata in the veterans’ category.
Eight Zimbabwean athletes took part in the tournament.
Toweel was the only one who returned home with medals.
Team coach, Sensei Shepherd Ziwira, said it was a learning curve.
“We are happy with the progress we made and it was a good opportunity for us as athletes as we managed to get some valuable lessons.
“The level of competition was top notch as we faced some of the best athletes from around the world.
“We are committed to continue working hard and seeing the sport grow,” said Ziwira.
Zvikomborero Moyo finished eighth in kata before making it into round two of the kumite.
Lucky Dube also lost in the second round.
The Zimbabwe men’s kata team finished in fifth place.
The local athletes qualified for the high-profile tournament when they took part in the Southern Africa qualifiers in South Africa in May.
