adminEllina Mhlanga : Sports Reporter
FORMER world champion Samson Muripo is once again expected to lead Zimbabwean fighters at the upcoming First So-Kyokushin World Karate Tournament in Shizuoka, Japan, next month. Zimbabwe are hoping to field at least four fighters at the Open tournament running from October 22 to 23.Zimbabwe Karate Union technical director for full contact styles Kumbirai Musinami said they are likely to send a smaller team after the tournament was changed to an Open tournament.
Earlier on, the tournament had been scheduled to feature various weight categories for seniors, women and juniors.
“Preparations are progressing very well. We received communication from Japan.
“It’s actually going to be an Open tournament and it’s no longer a category tournament. So we are going to look again at the team. Some of the athletes do not meet the requirements for an Open tournament.
“What it means is, there is going to be a smaller team going instead of the initial number of 12 to 15 fighters. We might end up sending four fighters. Certain weights are not allowed,” said Musinami.
Musinami indicated that on the top of the list that is expected to represent Zimbabwe next month are seasoned fighters, Muripo, Admire Chingozhoro, Liquor Khumalo and Tangai Mhlanga.
Online Reporter