Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga, Zimpapers Sports Hub
IT was a karate-style massacre in Mzansi as a fearless team of Zimbabwean juniors kicked and chopped their way to 29 medals at the South African Taekwondo Invitational Championships held on Saturday!
The Zimbabwe International Taekwondo Academy sent a squad of just 19 young athletes, aged 8 to 15, and returned home with a glittering haul: 7 gold, 11 silver and 11 bronze, all from their first-ever appearance at the prestigious tournament!
Leading the charge was Li Songze, who pulled off an impressive double gold performance in both sparring and patterns. “Li was unstoppable!” said the team’s coach, Evan Brown. “The whole squad showed heart and skill. We’re beyond proud.”
Another standout was Kondwani Ngwira, who walked away with a silver in sparring, and bronze in patterns and special techniques — proof that Zimbabwe’s future in martial arts is no joke.
Coach Brown added:“We’re preparing these juniors for the future. They fought like true warriors and we owe it all to the parents and guardians who made this trip possible.”
Gold medal winners were Li Songze x2 (sparring & patterns), Dalvin Brown (sparring), Simba Vashiko (power breaking), Peyton Sem (sparring), Leandri Scott (patterns), and Zvinashe (patterns).
Silver medallists included Kondwani Ngwira, Zvinashe Makanga, Simba Vashiko, Jordan Brown, Siya Moyo, Malachi Rikonda, and Tawongaishe Samukange.
Bronze went to Siya Moyo, Chloe Semu, Zvipozvashe Makanga, Maluwa Ngwira, Vuyelwa Moyo, and Tawongaishe Samukange.
From Cowdray Park to Korea someday? At this rate, don’t bet against it!
Watch out world — Zim’s taekwondo titans are rising!
Mathew Masinge