Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
Three Zimbabwean representatives at the recently concluded Kurash tournament in Kempton Park, South Africa, brought home five medals, showcasing their talent against competitors from nine countries.
The athletes, Jonathan ‘Mr Mat’ Muvhingi, 21-year-old Seabel Simbi, and 15-year-old Tawananyasha Taruvinga from Dominican Convent High School achieved remarkable success, winning two gold, two silver, and one bronze medal. The team was accompanied by International Kurash referee coach Simba Mapanda, along with team manager Martin Taruvinga.
The tournament featured a total of 16 weight categories for both senior men and women.
Zimbabwe faced tough competition from participants representing South Africa, Cameroon, DR Congo, Congo Brazzaville, Eswatini, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, and Egypt, while Tanzania, Benin, and Togo withdrew from the event. In an interview, Taruvinga, the head of the delegation, shared insights about the team’s experience. “The hectic schedule was necessary due to the fact that the team had to self-fund the entire trip, which included expenses for kits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and accreditation fees. “Tawananyasha was the first on the gilam (kurash fighting mat), competing in both the Cadet and Senior categories. She fought a total of ten matches and secured a bronze medal in the Cadet under-52kg category.
“Seabel Simbi had an impressive performance, winning all four of her fights, including a knockout, and clinched gold in the Senior under-63kg category. Jonathan Muvhingi competed in three matches, winning two and losing one, earning a silver medal in the 120+kg category,” he said.
Taruvinga said that both Jonathan and Seabel qualified for the World Senior Championships scheduled to be held in Turkey at the end of November 2025. The World Kurash Series Pro Championship, also in Turkey, will take place just days prior, offering a prize of $10,000 for gold medalists.Zimbabwe is bidding to host the 2026 edition of the African Championships.
“We have Coach Simba Mapanda, who has upgraded to an International Kurash Referee, allowing him to officiate at any Kurash tournament worldwide.”
Taruvinga praised the team’s performance.
“They fought like true champions, displaying dignity and determination.”
Muvhingi, recognised as the strongest man in Zimbabwe, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments. “I am excited to bring medals home. Representing my country on this stage is something I am very proud of.
“We need more support to achieve greatness and bring more medals home.”
