Zimbabwe’s growing footgolf movement once again demonstrated resilience and unity as players gathered at Bindura Golf Club for the Patron’s Tournament, delivering a vibrant showcase of talent despite the absence of Mashonaland Central patron Eleven Kambizi, who was sidelined by illness.

The atmosphere carried both concern and determination. Kambizi’s hospitalisation days before the event had cast uncertainty over the tournament, but organisers and participants pressed ahead, transforming the competition into a tribute to his passion for the sport. His influence remained evident throughout the day.

“The man, my father, is obsessed with footgolf,” said Tadiwa Kambizi, speaking on behalf of the senator. “He was demanding to be discharged from the hospital just to be here. He is seriously ill, but his heart is on this course.”

That devotion shaped the tournament’s spirit. In a message read to participants, Kambizi urged players to uphold discipline, integrity and international standards.

“Let’s apply fair play and follow the rules as if we are in Mexico. This tournament is being followed by footgolfers around the world,” he said.

Even in illness, the patron looked ahead with optimism and humour, pledging to return stronger and more committed.

“The tournament will be dubbed ‘Welcome Back From Heaven, Mr. Patron,’ to celebrate that I have returned with new skills from the Almighty,” he wrote, promising to personally fund a future event anywhere in Zimbabwe.

The Bindura event marked Zimbabwe’s third national footgolf showcase within three months, following successful tournaments in Kadoma. With more than 60 players participating, the competition highlighted the sport’s expanding footprint across provinces and age groups.

Mashonaland Central Sports and Recreation Commission coordinator James Maganga commended organisers for prioritising youth participation.

“Footgolf is on the right track. I especially want to thank Mr Chuwe for bringing students from Chiwaradzo Primary School. The sport is in safe hands,” he said.

Zimbabwe Footgolf president Daniel Kuwengwa emphasised the importance of nurturing junior talent, noting that strong grassroots development remains central to sustaining the sport’s growth trajectory.

On the course, competition proved intense across all divisions. Matsvetsvete Jayden of Harare claimed first place in the Putters Boys category, followed by Chironga Ethan and Kasirori Sean, while Kambeu Natalie led the Girls division ahead of Puruneri Nayomi and Chapinduka Leslencia.

In the Juniors Boys section, Kuwengwa Danmore from Mashonaland East secured top honours, with Mahwayani Benniel of Manicaland and Chitsike Enos from Harare finishing second and third respectively. The Juniors Girls category was dominated by Manicaland, where Tumbare Ashirai emerged winner ahead of Anohwimba Muchinguri, while Runesu Privilege of Harare took third place.

The Men’s division saw Tadiwanashe Eleven Kambizi of Mashonaland Central claim victory, followed by Harare-based Puruneri Nicholas and Mawurukira Kudakwashe Nicholas. In the Women’s category, Mushave Beauty led the field, with Ruwona Sithembile G and Madi Enia completing the podium.

Senior contests also delivered strong performances. Nyambiya Samuel of Harare won the Senior Men’s title ahead of Qhubekhani Mdhleleni of Bulawayo and Chuwe Edson from Mashonaland Central. In the Senior Women’s division, Garira Angelica of Mashonaland Central finished first, followed by Vambe Margaret and Madzima Choice of Harare.

Nyachowe Stanslous Runyararo of Mashonaland Central topped the Senior Men Plus category, with Pasipamire Jakopo of Masvingo and Chizema Kenias of Harare taking second and third positions. In the Senior Women Plus division, Mubonderi Sipiwe of Manicaland emerged victorious ahead of Dube Diniwe Beauty and Moyo Mainah from Midlands.

Despite their patron’s absence, the Bindura tournament ultimately underscored the growing momentum of footgolf in Zimbabwe — a sport steadily building community, nurturing young talent, and expanding its national reach.