Malawi invited to Zim Taekwondo Championships
The Malawi taekwondo team has been invited to next February’s Zimbabwe National Taekwondo Championships where they will be guest participants.
Zimbabwe national team coach Ndaona Kembo offered the invitation to the Taekwondo Association of Malawi (TAM) after his side defeated the Malawi team 4-2 during an international friendly contest at the Blantyre Youth Centre (BYC) last Sunday.
“Despite losing to our team, the Malawi side is very strong and can be a formidable team if they gain exposure by taking part in a number of international events. We, are, therefore inviting Malawi to our national championships in February 2013,†Kembo said.
Nevertheless, while accepting the invitation, TAM president Benedicto Tsinde said that finances would be their major challenge to fulfil the Zimbabwe trip.
Over a month ago, the Malawi team failed to have their first appearance at the African Taekwondo Championships in Madagascar following TAM’s failure to source the required K4 million (about $13 000) funding for the international trip.
“It is indeed a good idea for the local taekwondo athletes to gain exposure regularly on the international stage so as to improve on standards. However, financial hiccups are our main constraints. We will need financial support from well-wishers to make the Zimbabwe trip possible,†said Tsinde.
During last Sunday’s Malawi versus Zimbabwe encounter, Medson Ntila, Innocent Kathumba, Charlie Manyengo and female athlete Grace Tebulo lost their respective individual fights (Jiruki) to Zimbabwe’s Michael Sidija, Admire Tshitshiliza, Basil Madanha and Marylyn Mangota.
The national team found consolation scores from George Mbeyi and Tenson Malikebu who overpowered Zimbabwe’s Fungai Magomero and Warren Chakanyuka. The government through the Sports Council funded the event to the tune of K500 000 (about $1 500).
