Story by Raynald Ngwarati
Multi-award winning Martial artist, Shihan Wilfred Mashaya has tipped the local martial arts industry to become a global force if funding is availed to the sporting discipline.
Fresh from his conquest in South Wales last weekend, Zimbabwe’s kobudo pioneer is optimistic that Zimbabwe will become a martial arts powerhouse if funding is channeled towards the sport.
The Zim Ninja who has a running martial arts academy, grooming young boys and girls believes that martial arts talent is available in Zimbabwe, but has been affected by lack of support and funding.
Mashaya who is back in the country after dominating Wales during the WMAC Welsh Series in which he clinched four medals hopes his exploits will inspire corporates to avail more funding for the country to send complete teams for different events.
“I managed to scoop four medals representing our country, two gold and two silver medals, The medals are a reflection of hard work and I will continue to do more to put Zimbabwe on the map. I’m encouraging corporates to come on board and support sportspersons. Athletes do not at times afford to pay for some bills, but when corporates assists those with potential, that’s how they are groomed to be world champions,” Mashaya said.
Mashaya won gold in the free style weapon and traditional weapons and clinched two silver medals beating renowned martial artists including a sixth dun Shihan.
