Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe karate team safely arrived in Brazil for this year’s edition of the JKS shotokan karate style.
The six-member team that boasts top karatekas is expected to be among competitors who are battling it out with some of the best athletes until August 25.
The local athletes qualified for the high-profile tournament when they took part in the Southern Africa qualifiers in South Africa back in May.
Under the guidance of coaches Shepherd Ziwira and Natalie Toweel, they said they are happy that they are having a good representation at this year’s edition.
“We managed to leave the country on Saturday, and we safely arrived ahead of the games that will run until August 25. Attending such high profile tournaments is good for the athletes as it gives them expo-sure and opportunities.
“We went for a tournament in SA in May, which was used as a selection process, and six athletes, namely Tanyaradzwa Ziwira, Lovemore Mutune, Lucky Dube, Zvikomborero Moyo, Lanceburg Mawachi and Aiden Ziwira made the grade for Brazil.
“We have practiced a lot for the tournament, and we are looking forward to bring home some gold medals,” said Ziwira.
The Midlands-based sensei Ziwira has also appealed to supporters back home to rally behind the team as it looks forward to raising the country’s flag high.
