Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, aka Zim Ninja, won big at the Welsh Open 2024 under World Martial Arts Championship (WMAC) last Sunday in Wales, where he clinched four medals in various categories.
Mashaya's exceptional performance in the traditional weapons and freestyle weapons categories earned him two gold medals.
He also secured two silver medals in the creative weapons and extreme weapons categories, making him one of the most decorated athletes in the championship.
Speaking from the UK, an elated Mashaya said he felt honoured to represent his country at the prestigious martial championship and is proudly bringing home an impressive medal haul.
“I am very passionate about this sport and even as I participated in the championship, my mind was set on getting the best results possible in honour of my country and the various stakeholders that are rooting for me,” Mashaya said
“This win is for Zimbabwe and I am proud to say I have amassed numerous awards in these international competitions over the years, a feat that has put Zimbabwean martial arts on the map. The goal is to continue on that path while nurturing the next generation of martial arts talent.”
The competition saw the participation of several countries, including Wales, England, Nepal, Spain, Zimbabwe, Ukraine and India, among others.
Despite the stiff competition, Mashaya's skill and expertise shone through, earning him the respect and admiration of his fellow athletes and the audience alike.
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“This was an elite event which drew top participants from a number of respected countries in the martial arts world and it gives me great pleasure that I have represented my country well,” Mashaya said.
“I am elated about this achievement and I will continue to give my best as we continue promoting brand Zimbabwe through sport. The possibilities are endless and I am geared for even more success.”
Mashaya expressed gratitude for the love and support shown by his fellow Zimbabweans who travelled from England to support him.
“The win certainly adds to our national pride and I am grateful for the support from fellow Zimbabweans in particular Lincoln Nyangani, Destiny Chikonzo, Natalya Nyangani (kid), and Amai Debra Chikonzo for coming all the way from England to Wales to render their unwavering support to their own,” he said.
“That gesture and show of love motivated me to go all out in all the categories I competed in and I pray that we continue to demonstrate that oneness across all sporting disciplines.”
The WMAC Wales was organised by WMAC prresident Chris Sparkes and Robert Taylor and Mashaya's trip to Wales was made possible through the generous support of various individuals and local corporates.
“I am grateful for the goodwill and support from the corporate partners like Bhola the mega Mart, Total one-stop tools station, Zim Ninja Academy family and other individuals who sponsored me,” Mashaya said.
“Their generous support and belief in me played a significant role in this success and I pledge to continue making them and the entire Zimbabwean community proud.”
With such an impressive performance on the world stage, Mashaya is determined to continue conquering the world in martial arts weaponry.
“From humble beginnings I have grown to become one of the country's most decorated Sportsperson being a multiple award-winning Martial artist, Hall of Famer, World Champ, Former Zimbabwe Sportsperson and Regional Sportsman of the Year, among other accolades,” Mashaya said.
“I am also a holder of four Black Belts in Kyokushin Karate, Ninjutsu, Kobudo/Weapons and Self Defense and I have represented the in countries like Russia, Spain, Italy, Montenegro, Bangladesh, England, Wales, South Africa, Namibia, Ghana among others.”
Mashaya is expected back in the country on Wednesday.
