African teenage girls have been encouraged to participate in sports for gender equality assurance. Many of these girls have successfully achieved and received medals in their sporting careers. However, the Zimbabwean 13 year-old girl is not left out among this clique.
Recently, it has been reported that a young Zimbabwean girl amongst all odds has become the first female motocross champion. The girl who is a great motocross rider is more determined to venture in this rare extreme sport.
The champion, Tanya Muzinda started her career when she was 5 years old and was at times perceived to be a boy. She explained that she needed to always dress like a boy so that she could be able to participate in sport at anytime.
Tanya, who is 13 years old has inspired many young generation never to give up on their dreams by pursuing what they know will make them a better person.
“If you are going to do a sport that is for boys that is probably male dominated, do it as a girl and don’t change into the boys. You should also be able to do rugby but on the red carpet you can rock a nice dress,” Tanya said.
In addition, Tanya is very determined and believed that every girl should pursue her dreams with determination. Tanya is the first ever female motocross champion in Zimbabwe and holds various other titles including Teen Sportsperson of the Year.
“I was so happy that I was nominated Teen of the year in Zimbabwe for 2016 and in South Africa, I didn’t win but I won the best female rider because I was the only girl out of 20 boys,” she added.
In reaction to Tanya’s victory, her father, Tawanda Muzinda has been at the frontline to encourage her daughter to excel in her career as a sports lady. He further urged every parent to assist and guide their children towards achieving their desired goal.
“The time for the podium shall come when she is hungry for the podium. Eventually I know she will get there but what is important now is the exposure; she needs to participate at that level,” he said.
Tanya is determined to become the first female motocross athlete from Africa to champion international competitons. she is also determined to show the teenage boys and girls that they can achieve the best in life if they are determined and committed to the hard work.
Finally, Tanya’s success is a stepping stone to getting close to her goal. Similarly, female teenagers are expected to emulate this passion for success as it will go a long way to bring out the best potentials in their lives.
