Chronicle Editor
Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE National Karate Federation (ZNKF) president Joe Rugwete says they are looking forward to a memorable return to action through the Kurai Open Karate Championship later this month.
The championship will be held at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex on October 30.
“This tournament comes at a time when the Zimbabwe National Karate Federation has just adopted several policies and procedures which include the tournament hosting policy and the national team selection policy. It’s an invitational tournament that has been organised by our affiliate Shito Ryu,” said Rugwete.
“Karate-do Kofukan Zimbabwe, presents a good opportunity for us to test these policies and procedures as we move towards holding world class local events. I look forward to the athletes and officials enjoying a memorable return to competition.”
Gerald Muusha, who is the Kurai Kofukan Karate club chairman, said the competition presents athletes with an opportunity to charm national selectors for various international tournaments.
“It’s the second edition of the Kurai Open Karate Championship after successfully hosting it in 2019. In line with the Olympic values of excellency, friendship and respect, we seek to bring together the karate family after over a year of inactivity caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Athletes will be competing to prove themselves before the national coaching unit which shall be considering athletes to represent the country in upcoming regional, continental and international events to be held this year,” said Muusha.
He urged those that will attend the meet to remain mindful that Covid-19 is active and all Covid-19 protocols spelt out by the Sports and Recreation Commission centred on masking up, washing/sanitising hands, and maintaining social distance at all times are observed.
Registration fees are pegged at US$15 for Kata, Kumite US$15, Kata and Kumite US$20, late registration US$10 and a protest fee of US$30.
Deadline for registration is October 15. – @innocentskizoe
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