Zimbabwe takes third place in AUSC karate tourney

Zimbabwe over the weekend successfully hosted the African Union Sports Council Region Five Karate tournament at City Sports Centre in Harare.

Zimbabwe came third in the tournament after amassing 40 medals.

The country won five gold, 10 silver and 25 bronze medals.

Zimbabwe Karate Federation and AUSC Karate president Sensei Joe Rugwete said they were pleased that the country successfully hosted such a big tournament.

“We are proud of our efforts. Hosting seven other regional nations is massive for us as a country and also markets us as a good host,” said Sensei Rugwete.

“This is great for me, the medal means a lot for me and I was fighting for my father who is the one who trained me and he pushed me all the way,” said Kumute gold medal winner, Sensei Tanyaradzwa Ziwira.

“I am very happy that I have won while representing the nation, also as a woman it means a lot to other ladies. I hope I can inspire other women to get involved in martial arts,” noted Kata gold medal winner, Sensei Hazel Anna Chirama.

Another young female Karateka, who aspires to be First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa’s body guard, Rumbidzai Michelle Makamache, also won a silver medal in the Kata category while her friend and club mate, Makanaka Mulopa won a bronze medal in the Kumite category.

Makamache’s father, David, was thrilled by the performance of the young ladies.

“Makanaka and Rumbi were together in preparing for this tournament. Ss a father, I am actually happy with this great achievement. It means a lot to the young ladies. It will definitely push them to achieve more in this sport, they are young dedicated, disciplined, and eager to learn,” he said.

South Africa was the overall winner after amassing 147 medals, while Botswana came second with 47 medals.
Story originally published by ZimNow