Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
POPULARLY known as Zim Ninja, martial arts expert, Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, continues to scale greater heights.
Mashaya is back in the country after leading eight young Zimbabwean martial artists to a historic 43-medal haul at the International Combat Organisation (ICO) World Championships in Swansea, Wales.
The Championships ran between October 15-19.
Zimbabwe won 14 gold medals, 18 silver and 11 bronze.
The team faced tough competition from other countries like the United States of America but still delivered on the big stage.
“This is a proud moment for Zimbabwe.
“The kids worked hard, showed great discipline, and gave their best. I’m so proud of what they achieved,” Shihan Mashaya said.
The young athletes, who travelled to the United Kingdom for the first time, took part in several categories.
They were under the custodian of the Zimbabwe Karate Union.
The team also received support from the Zimbabwe Republic Police who provided training facilities at Mkushi Depot.
“Training these kids is one way of helping them stay away from drugs and substance abuse, which is a big problem in the country.
“Also to instill discipline in the younger generation among other Martial Arts Benefits.
“As the saying goes it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,” added Shihan Mashaya.
Some of the medalists include Dean Gwata who won silver in individual freestyle weapon and three bronze medals in team creative weapon, team freestyle weapon, and team traditional weapon.
Anenyasha and Anotida Hove collected a combined seven medals with the former raking in four bronze medals while the latter claimed three golds.
Thandeka Moyo and Takudzwa Chizema also added to Zimbabwe’ gold medal tally.
Arnold Mudzengerere, Wilfred Mashaya Junior and Brian Mupindu Junior also stepped onto the podium.
Shihan Mashaya credited the success to teamwork, dedication, and the support of the Zimbabwean community in the UK.
“The children fought with their hearts and carried the Zimbabwean flag high.
“This win proves that our country has world-class talent. This is a successful outing as part of our fight against drugs and substance abuse among the youth,” he added
“It was not easy for myself alone with eight kids, but I really want to appreciate a Zimbabwean living in the United Kingdom, Delight Samanyanga, and her son Munyaradzi Chiwara.
“They came to welcome us at the airport and took care of the kids, especially the four girls who needed a lady’s attention.
“We also appreciate other Zimbabweans who came to cheer us at the tournament.”
The tournament attracted participants from Spain, Ireland, Ukraine, Italy, Cyprus, USA, Wales, England, Scotland, Brazil, Portugal, Romania, France, South Africa, Germany, France, Nepal, and Zimbabwe.
