12-year-old Zim girl back home with silver, bronze medals

Zimbabwe's aerobics rhythmic gymnasts Tayedza Chukumbirike has returned home with silver and bronze medals after an impressive show in Level 4 Aerobics at the Region V Gymnastics Championships in Walvis Bay, Namibia

Tayedza Chikumbirike has been doing aerobics since she was four years old and competed at a national level as a student at different events.

"When I got into the national team I was happy because I knew I would be representing my country at international level and I am happy I won," said Tayedza

The 12-year-old claimed two medals at the Walvis Bay Gymnastics Competition in the female level 4 division in Namibia this month.

"It is my first time at such an event , although it was very tough and I am glad that I won two medals," said Tayedza

Tayedza said her coach Kyle Rodgers and parents kept her motivated with plenty of positive feedback. "I was put up against even more experienced athletes and my goal "would just be to keep up" representing Zimbabwe," she said.

Chikumbirike now hopes to take part in the Olympic Games next year as she is working very hard.

"My winning just shows that I have skill and its just the beginning of good things to come and I hope that I will represent my country at the Olympics," she said.

"Next year I will be competing Level 7 aerobics and possibly Level 6 Rhythmic gymnastics. Gymnastics in general is my favourite sport because it's very challenging and you learn new things. It also helps you improve in your flexibility and strength," said Tayedza

In the women artistic category Savannah Harper and Tara Bingly scooped two bronze medals.