RENOWNED martial champion Sensei Wilfred Mashaya, affectionately known as Zim Ninja, soared to victory, securing a gold medal for Zimbabwe at the International BG Karate Championship 2023 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Mashaya, representing Zimbabwe in the Senior Men’s Freestyle Weapon Category, competed under the Zimbabwe Karate Union (ZKU) banner. He outshone his competitors in a fiercely contested battle held at the BKSP Sports Village from December 28 to 29. The Zim Ninja displayed his mastery of various weapons, including Tonfa, Nunchaku, Katana Swords, Sai, Bo, and Kama, securing his triumph.
Sensei Mashaya’s expertise in Kobudo, which was introduced to the country in 2016 after an international tournament in Moscow, has garnered accolades and paved the way for the growth of martial arts disciplines.
The Bangladesh Goju Ryu Karate Federation, led by Shihan Khaled Monsur Chowdhury, held a tournament featuring various karate categories. In the Senior Men Weapon Category, Wilfred Mashaya emerged victorious and was awarded the “Wilfred Mashaya – ZKU Vice President” trophy.
Despite challenges such as limited sponsorship and resources, Mashaya’s unwavering commitment to martial arts has propelled Zimbabwe onto the global stage. His coaching efforts, particularly with the Zimbabwe Kobudo Team, have secured victories and promoted gender equality in the sport, with female participants excelling in regional tournaments.
Upon returning home yesterday, Mashaya received a warm welcome at Robert Gabriel Mugabe Airport. The crowd that greeted him comprised Zim Ninja Academy supporters, fellow martial artists, and well-wishers who celebrated his triumph with a display of martial arts skills.
Mashaya’s heroic achievement was recognized with several accolades, including a gold medal, winning trophy, certificates, and honorary trophies, which demonstrated the nation’s pride in its martial arts hero.
Zim Ninja is excited for a better 2024. He believes that every step is a learning opportunity. Mashaya emphasized that self-belief is critical to success in sports.
“The secret for one to make it in sports is through believing in oneself, being disciplined, focused, hard work, and keeping one’s head low for humility. Stay away from drugs, substance abuse and criminal activities. Above all, God is over everything,” Sensei Mashaya said.
