Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE So-kyokushin Karate-Do Organisation’s pair of Florry Chandavengerwa and Tsitsi Muranda are holding their heads high as they take part at the African Full Contact Karate Organisation (AFCKO) Annual tournament today at the Vosloorus Civic Centre in South Africa.
Chandavengerwa will fight for honours in the Women Under-70kg and Muranda will battle it out in the Women Under-55kg.
They are accompanied by Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate-Do Organisation branch chief Samson Muripo.
Chandavengerwa is positive of the groundwork they covered during the preparation phase and is hopeful of a medal.
“My expectation is to go in calm, fight smart, and give everything I have trained for.
“Medals are the goal. But I am more focused on applying what we have worked on in the dojo and representing my country and club with respect,” said Chandavengerwa.
She has competed at this level before and believes the experience will come in handy when she takes to the tatami today.
“Last year I learned a lot about pacing and staying composed under pressure. I am coming back with that experience and aiming to do better.
“Competing at AFCKO is a chance to represent Zimbabwe, test myself, and learn from the best in the region. More than results, it’s about showing discipline, respect, and the spirit of karate.”
Muranda will be making her debut but is not intimidated as she seeks to carve her name among the best on the continent.
“We were training hard and doing kumite to stay strong.
“My target is to win this tournament and to learn more skills.
“This tournament means a lot to me because I will be representing my organisation and my country as well,” said Muranda.
This is their first major tournament this year.
Muripo is upbeat the two will hoist the country’s flag high.
“As a leader who has walked the path with unquestionable focus, determination and result-oriented spirit, I always feel obligated to expose the best athletes, especially the underprivileged ones to the fires that will exploit and expose their full potential.
“I know where talent is and I am happy that God has granted us the opportunity to represent our country.
“I promise all sport loving followers good results,” said Muripo.
The tournament comes just a few days after the Zimbabwe So-kyokushin Karate-Do Organisation held their Kyu Technical Promotion at Raylton Sports Club in Harare.
Chandavengerwa was one of the highest graded fighters.
“We had 74 athletes in attendance and the highest graded were Tapiwa Gwata – 1st Kyu (Senior Brown Belt) and Florry Chandavengerwa – 1st Kyu.
“Both are now 12 months plus away from shodan (1st black belt degree).
“The attendance was tremendous and everyone was excited considering the events in the nearest future where we will be hosting Japanese finest and multiple world and international karate champion Senpai Naoto Kusakabe.
“He will be accompanied by Sensei Marty Yamagata to our special series of events in July, and the 1st and 2nd of August selection tournament in Harare,” Muripo said.
