Story by ZBC Reporter
MULTI-award-winning martial artist, Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, affectionately known as the “Zim Ninja”, once again flew the Zimbabwean flag high, clinching five gold medals at the International Martial Arts Corporation (IMAC) English Open Tournament held at the York Leisure Centre last Sunday.
Shihan Mashaya dominated all five categories in which he competed, excelling in traditional and freestyle martial arts weaponry. His gold medals were earned in the Black Belt Traditional Weapon, Black Belt Freestyle Weapon, Black Belt Creative Weapon, Musical Weapons, and Advanced Weapon divisions.
Demonstrating his mastery of ancient Okinawan and Japanese weapons, including swords, nunchaku, tonfa, sai, and kama, Mashaya showcased his superior skills, discipline, and experience honed over years of dedication to martial arts.
He holds multiple black belts, including a Sixth Dan in disciplines such as Kyokushin Karate, Bujinkan Ninjutsu, Kobudo (Weapons), and Self-Defence.
The prestigious international tournament featured competitors from England, Wales, Scotland, India, Nepal, Zimbabwe, Romania, and Poland, among others. Shihan Mashaya’s clean sweep not only affirmed his global standing but also served as a major confidence booster ahead of the World Championships scheduled for October in Wales.
In recognition of his outstanding performance, IMAC organisers honoured Mashaya with the Athlete of the Tournament Award Trophy.
As the founder of the Zim Ninja Academy in Harare, Mashaya continues to train martial artists of all ages, from children as young as four to adult practitioners, instilling discipline, skill, and the spirit of sportsmanship.
He is currently preparing to lead a team of 15 or more athletes, comprising both men and women, to the upcoming World Championships, pending sponsorship and logistical support.
“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and I believe with the right support, our Zimbabwean team can shine even brighter on the global stage,” he said.
Mashaya’s morale was significantly boosted by support from fellow Zimbabweans in the diaspora. William Mahlunge, popularly known as Muparendi Wigo, travelled from Wales to welcome the Zim Ninja at Heathrow Airport and attended the tournament in full support. Members of the Mhundwa family, based in England, also rallied behind him, cheering with Zimbabwean flags and celebratory songs.
Shihan Mashaya’s illustrious career includes being named the 2018 Zimbabwe Sportsperson of the Year, becoming the first Zimbabwean Regional Sportsman of the Year, and making history as the first African to be crowned Kobudo World Champion.
The trailblazing martial artist and certified Ninja has proudly represented Zimbabwe in countries such as Russia, Spain, Italy, Wales, Bangladesh, Montenegro, Poland, and England bringing home medals, trophies, and international acclaim.
