Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
NATALIE Toweel returns home today with gold in veteran women’s kumite and silver in kata from the seventh JKS World Shoto Cup in Victoria, Brazil.
She was Zimbabwe’s only medallist at the tournament, where the country’s other seven competitors finished outside the medal places.
The competition was held at the Tancredão Gymnasium from August 20 to 23.
Zvikomborero Moyo finished eighth in kata and reached the second round of the kumite competition, while Lucky Dube and Brooklyn Bangidza were eliminated in the second round.
Zimbabwe’s men’s kata team finished fifth.
Team coach Shepherd Ziwira said the competition had provided valuable lessons for the athletes.
“We are happy with the progress we made. It was a good opportunity for us as athletes, and we managed to get some valuable lessons.
“The level of competition was top-notch as we faced some of the best athletes from around the world.
“We are committed to continuing to work hard and seeing the sport grow,” said Ziwira.
The local athletes qualified for the World Shoto Cup through the Southern Africa qualifiers held in South Africa in May.
