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Fungai Munyoro
OVER 250 karatekas are expected at Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex on Saturday for the All-Africa So-Kyokushin Karate Tournament.
Zimbabwe Karate Union technical director Kumbirai Musinami said athletes would compete in 12 categories.
“The preparations are going on well. We are hosting this event for the second time after we successfully hosted the first edition in July last year at the same venue,” said Musinami.
“We are almost there, we have managed to secure medals and trophies from South Africa and everything is in place.
“Over 250 athletes from Zimbabwe, DRC, South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, among other countries, have already confirmed their participation and we look forward to an explosive event.”
Musinami said the ZKU was beginning to reap the fruits of a programme that saw the union introducing karate in schools.
“We will be having school children taking part and it’s a sign that the sport is growing in popularity.
People now have a better understanding of karate unlike long back when they used to associate it with hooliganism. We are happy as an association,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s charge will be lead by defending champion Brian Chiringa. Tangai Mhlanga will compete in the middleweight category together with Tawanda Mufundisi, while Phumulani Maphosa will battle it out in the lightweight category.
And the fast-rising Dexter Sambare is determined to make a lasting impression when he puts on his karategi (karate uniform) next weekend.
“I have been working very hard over the last couple of months and feel that I’m now ready. I’m going into the competition with a positive mind and have a feeling that I will make it.
“I want to win it for my province, nation and also for my dad who has been a pillar of strength,” said the Manicaland-based karaketa.
Online Reporter