Andrew Moyo
Bodybuilding sensation Regina Jonga went home smiling on Wednesday night after scooping the Sportswoman of the award at this year’s Annual National Sports Awards which were held at Mana Resorts in the capital.
A well-deserved accolade considering her exploits in 2019, having been a dominant figure on the international bodybuilding scene.
In an interview Jonga said that while the nomination on its own was overwhelming, the win was mothing short of special.
“I was overwhelmed by the nomination since it was my first time for my name to be mentioned in these particular awards,” said Jonga.
“I am proud of myself for winning this award as it is proof that all the hard work I have been putting in the gym is finally paying off.”
The bodybuilder is aiming high this year as she has vowed to surpass the bar she set last year.
“I have been training extra hard of late because this year the goal is to win all my international shows.
“I want to become the best female bodybuilder and I am confident that I can achieve it with the way my body is shaping up.
Jonga joined the global bodybuilding elite in March last year after earning her World Fitness Federation Pro Card. Since then she has been invited to participate in almost every major international bodybuilding show.
List of all Award winners
Sportsperson of the Year
Themba Gorimbo (mixed martial arts – $200 000)
Sportsman of the Year
Themba Gorimbo (mixed martial arts)
Sportswoman of the Year
Regina Jonga (body-building)
Team of the Year
Netball Senior Team (The Gems)
Coach of the Year
Lloyd Makunde (Netball)
Sportsman of the Year with a Disability
Shephard Patrick (Athletics Special Olympics)
Special Acknowledgement Awards
JR Goddard Contracting; Hoops for Hope; Ministry of Primary and Secondary education
Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability
Margaret Bangajena (wheelchair racing)
Junior Sportsperson of the Year
Donata Katai (swimming)
Sport Development award
City of Harare
Technical Official of the Year
Sarah Bennet (hockey)
Junior Sportsman of the Year with a Disability
Tapiwanashe Mutsikira (athletics Special Olympics)
Junior Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability
Mufarowashe Shambira (athletics, Special Olympics)
Junior Sportsman of the Year
Matthew Denslow (triathlon)
Junior Sportswoman of the Year
Donata Katai (swimming)
Woman and Sport Award
Eugenia Chidhakwa, Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation
Sport Administration Award
Stanley Mutoya, African Union Sports Council Region 5 Secretariat