Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWEAN power-lifters Godwin Mhaka, Chido Maenzanise and Spiwe Munyaka raised the country’s flag high at the World Championship Power-lifting and Body-building at the Pakistan Association in the United Arab Emirates at the weekend.
Mhaka dominated the competition to come first overall while Maenzanise was placed first in her category and second overall.
Munyaka, who took part in the over 80kgs category, was not to be outdone as she claimed first place in her category and third overall.
The local hulks were competing against top athletes from nations that included Great Britain, Australia, India and Pakistan.
The trio’s success has decisively placed Zimbabwe on the global map of strength sports.
Mhaka, who contested on the sub masters’ category and won the overall gold medal, was naturally happy with his triumph which he attributed to some intense and hard work.
“I am happy to have successfully captured another power-lifting accolade, and it is all through hard work.
“Body-building and power-lifting are individual sports that needs personal support and I am grateful to everyone who made this trip a success.
“After I had failed to take part in some contests last year, it gave me courage to work hard for this tournament, and results are speaking for themselves.
“I am happy that we managed to do well with the girls whom I travelled with, and we are looking forward to more support as we seek to enter more global tournaments this year.
“The competition was tough, especially considering the number of athletes we came up against, but we pulled through,” said Mhaka.
Mhaka, who has transformed from body-building to power-lifting, is not new at winning international contests after he also captured the 2025 Mr Universe title.
