Tadious Manyepo
CHIDO Maenzanise says a lot is still on the way after she grabbed bronze in her maiden African Strongwomen continental jamboree in Livingstone, Zambia, last weekend.
The 27-year-old Zimbabwean went into this competition as an underdog.
But, once she entered the auditorium in the Zambian resort town bordering Zimbabwe’s own Victoria Falls, Maenzanise turned into a beast.
She was impressive throughout the sessions and deservedly finished third in an exciting tie.
“I am very happy for having achieved this feat.
“I went into this competition as one of the novices given it was my first time to participate in this continental contest.
“It was obviously difficult for me competing against veterans in the game.
“Most of the contestants were tried-and-tested girls who have been in the trenches for a long time.
“So, to have gone out there and pull such a feat is something encouraging.
“I wanted to resolutely fight for the country’s badge and I am very happy.
“I would like to thank my trainer Moses Nyamhotsi for polishing me up.
“I can assure you that more is still to come.”
Nyamhotsi, who is director of Black Moses Academy in Highfield, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Powerlifting Federation and vice-chairperson of the Zimbabwe Paralympics Federation, hailed his athlete.
“Maenzanise has done us proud, look, she went to Zambia to compete but no one gave her a chance.
“She was a complete outsider but sheer determination and her hunger to succeed carried the day for her.
“As her trainer, I am very proud of what she did. I didn’t give her a chance but I never doubted her capacity.
“I am very sure she will scale dizzy heights in the next competitions. Her work ethic is second to none and I am very happy.”