Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
OVER 500 kids have joined a cluster of dojos in Chitungwiza which have been put together by renowned master Yassin Saidi over the past three months, thanks to an epoch-changing financial injection thrown by a local businessman.
Now Saidi, who at only 23 already has a fifth dan Black Belt and still competing, is working to start rolling out tournaments in an unprecedented move that is set to change the face of taekwondo not only in the dormitory town but across the country.
This follows a phased injection of a US$50 000 by BG Sniper boss Parkston Choto into the sport which is famed for instilling discipline in participants.
“For years, we have been trying to lure kids from the streets and put them into dojos where we use taekwondo to fight the drug pandemic and all other social ills,” said Saidi.
“Taekwondo in itself, teaches discipline and naturally the fighters know how to preserve peace. Besides, it is a sport that can transform lives for the better.
“It’s a sport that a person can survive on. So, we are grateful to have partnered with BG Sniper in this initiative.
“We have started organising tournaments where not only trophies and shields are the rewards but financial packages are there for the taking. We will not leave anyone from the initiative.
“Winners will be seconded to international tournaments and that way we will really help put Zimbabwe on the international taekwondo map.”
Saidi, a four-time international champion, is also keen to revive his own career outside the borders of Zimbabwe as he had been grounded by a lack of funding.
The BG Sniper Logistics have also extended their social sport support to football where they have poured in excess of US$40 000 to aid social leagues in Chitungwiza, Hwedza and Marondera.
Speaking after the signing ceremony with different recipients of the massive sponsorship package Choto said, “It’s my own way of ploughing back to the community. I love sport and I was blown away with the energy and passion displayed by Saidi.
