Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S martial arts expert, Shidoshi Wilfred Mashaya, returned from Scotland with four gold medals.
He dominated the 2026 ICO Scottish Open Martial Arts Tournament held at Easterhouse Sports Centre in Glasgow at the weekend.
Mashaya, popularly known as “Zim Ninja”, won gold in Traditional Weapons, Freestyle Weapons, Creative Weapons and Musical Weapons as he continued his strong run on the international martial arts circuit. The four-gold haul adds to an impressive international record for Mashaya.
He won two gold and two silver medals at the 2025 ICO Martial Arts World Championships in Wales.
Speaking after his latest success, Mashaya said the achievement was the result of sustained preparation and a commitment to representing Zimbabwe at the highest level.
“I am very happy with the results because I managed to win four gold medals in four categories. It shows that the hard work, discipline and preparation are paying off,” said Mashaya.
“Every competition comes with its own challenges, so I had to remain focused and make sure that I represented Zimbabwe to the best of my ability.” The Scottish Open brought together competitors from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and other countries, providing Mashaya with another opportunity to test himself against international opposition.
“When I compete outside Zimbabwe, I know I am not only competing for myself. I am carrying the Zimbabwean flag and representing everyone who has supported my journey,” he said.
Mashaya also paid tribute to Zimbabweans living in Scotland and England for their support during the tournament. “The support I received from Zimbabweans here in Scotland was amazing. They made me feel at home despite being thousands of kilometres away from Zimbabwe,” he said.
Mashaya’s latest achievement comes after a highly successful 2025 in which he not only won four medals at the ICO World Championships but also coached eight Zimbabwean children who collectively secured 43 medals at the event.
