THE Zimbabwe National Strongman Championships witnessed thrilling displays of strength and determination as Trevor Chingosho and Vimbai Gomba emerged victorious in the men's and women's categories, respectively.
Newly-crowned champions, Chingosho and Gomba, will now have the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at the upcoming African championships and the Dubai World Strongman Championships scheduled for later this year.
The event, held this past Saturday in the capital, drew the participation of over 50 athletes.
In a hard-fought contest, Chingosho powered his way to claim the overall men's 105kg title, leaving Otten Chivhuna to secure the second position.
The women's category saw VGomba triumph over experienced competitors Chido Mayenzanise and Vaanessa Mupetiwa, who finished second and third, respectively.
Adding to the excitement, Tadiwa Mateme showcased his potential by clinching the gold medal in the Novice men's under 80kg division.
President of the Zimbabwe Strongman Federation, Knowledge Musengi, expressed satisfaction with both the athlete turnout and the high standard of competition.
"I would like to thank the athletes and supporters for coming in their numbers and supporting the event. Most athletes were new, but they showed the desire and resilience and I'm sure they will do better in the next event. I was impressed with their level of commitment and zeal to learn," he said.
Musengi also extended his gratitude to the event's sponsors.
"We are also very grateful to several sponsors that include Bhola Mega Mat Longchan, Steel Centre, MedOrange Pharmacies and other individuals who came on board in support of the sport.
"But we continue to call more individuals and corporates to come on board so that in the next event, we can improve the prices of the winners," Musengi said.
He also expressed optimism about the sport's growth.
"And I'm also very positive that the event will grow bigger next time because when we launched it last year, we had less than 20 athletes taking part, but this time we have at least 50, which is a good sign that we are growing."
