EIGHT young Zimbabwean martial artists under the leadership of Kobudo World Champion Shihan Wilfred Mashaya won 43 medals at the International Combat Organisation (ICO) World Championships in Swansea, Wales.
The team, aged between eight and sixteen, represented the Zimbabwe Martial Arts Kobudo Team under the Zimbabwe Karate Union bagged 43 medals, including 14 gold, 18 silver, and 11 bronze.
They competed in Traditional Weapons, Creative Weapons, Freestyle Weapons, and Advanced Weapons events, after months of training at Mkushi Training Academy and Aquaview Resort.
Leading the team, Shidosh Wilfred Mashaya retained the Kobudo World Championship title by winning two golds and two silvers in black belt and advanced events.
The young athletes excelled in both individual and team events. Dean Gwatah won one silver in individual freestyle weapon and three bronze medals in team events. Anenyasha Hove earned four bronze medals across team and individual competitions. Anotida Hove took three golds and one silver, while Thandeka Moyo won three golds and three silvers.
In the boys events, Takudzwa Chizema claimed three golds and three silvers. Wilfred Mashaya Jnr earned one gold and three silvers. Arnold Mudzengerere brought home one gold, two silvers, and two bronze medals, while Brian Mupindu Jnr took one gold, three silvers, and two bronzes.
“This is a proud moment for Zimbabwe. The kids worked hard, showed great discipline, and gave their best. I’m so proud of what they achieved,” Shihan Mashaya said.
The tournament attracted competitors from Spain, Ireland, Ukraine, Italy, Cyprus, United States, Wales, England, Scotland, Brazil, South Africa, France, Romania, Germany, Nepal, and Zimbabwe.
Master Mashaya also thanked members of the Zimbabwean community in the UK for their support.
“It was not easy for me alone with eight kids, but I want to thank Delight Samanyanga and her son Munyaradzi Chiwara. They welcomed us at the airport and looked after the children, especially the four girls who needed an older lady’s guidance. We also appreciate other Zimbabweans who came to cheer us at the tournament,” he added.
