THE Zimbabwe Judo Team returned home yesterday after a haul of 41 medals at the South African Schools Championships 2026, alongside podium finishes at the South Africa Open Championships.
Zimbabwe won 15 gold, 10 silver and 16 bronze across the Advanced and Novice divisions at the Schools Championships, according to official results.
At the Open, Ropafadzo Viano claimed gold in the Cadets U63kg category and Makanaka Nherera took silver in 78kg as Tichaona Gandanhamo finished seventh of nine in the -81kg category.
Senior judoka Brian Chiminya was the standout, winning bronze in the Under-73kg division and silver in the Open Boys category.
Head coach Sydney Alex Mutero said the results reflected growing strength in the sport at home.
"We came here to compete and to represent Zimbabwe with pride. The athletes showed determination and courage. 41 medals and podium finishes in the Open prove that our hard work is paying off. This is for the nation," Mutero told NewsDay Sport.
"We are proud of the cadets. 41 medals overall is a huge statement for us. A big thank you to Coral Soft Tissue Paper Company for assisting the team and coaching staff."
The team landed in Harare at 6pm on Saturday.