Chronicle Editor
TOP Zimbabwean boxing referee Steven Masiyambumbi is back in the country after successfully officiating at the International Boxing Association Women’s World Championships in New Delhi, India.
This was his third time officiating at the competition.
Masiyambumbi, who holds a three-star referees’ and judge qualifications was among over 30 international referees and judges in charge of matches in India.
“I am happy to have gotten this opportunity. Besides learning a lot of things, I was able to fly the Zimbabwean flag high which for me is a big achievement.
“I was able to judge and officiate matches including at the finals which is a great achievement not only for me but for my country as well.
“These are tough competitions where any mistake can see you sent back home. For me to have officiated in the finals it shows the good work that I put in.
“Now that I am back home, the work continues starting with the national competition we will be having at Palace Hotel on Saturday,” said Masiyambumbi.
He has previously been invited to attend a course in Dubai, United Arab Emirates where he excelled resulting in him being nominated to officiate in the Men’s World Championships in Serbia.
Masiyambumbi started the journey in 2014 after Zimbabwe hosted the African Union Sports Council Region 5 Games in Bulawayo.
He has apart from India, officiated in China, Serbia, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Angola, Zambia, South Africa, Tanzania and Turkey.
Meanwhile, all is set for the National Novice Championships set for Palace Hotel on Saturday that will be used as a selection meet for the African Games to be held in Ghana early next year.
From the African Games, boxers for the Olympics Games 2024 in Paris, France will be selected.
Initially, the African Games were meant to take place in Accra, Ghana in August this year but will now be held at the beginning of 2024 after an agreement between major stakeholders. African Games will serve as a qualifier for 12 out of the proposed 24 sporting disciplines.
The Zimbabwe National Army, Air Force of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Prisons, Bulawayo Province, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Harare, Masvingo, Midlands, Victoria Falls Academy and Shumba Academy have all confirmed participation at the National Novice Championships.
As part of the entertainment, jumping castles, face painting and balloon art and braai stands will be set up at the venue to make it a family fun day. Kids will be allowed into the venue only up to 6pm. — @innocentskizoe
Online Reporter