Thohoyandou’s Tinashe Rivombo, 8, Secures Silver Medals and Eyes International gymnastics Stage
MAKWARELA, LIMPOPO - Eight-year-old Tinashe Marcelle Rivombo is quickly becoming a name to watch in South African gymnastics. The young athlete, a member of the Wavhudi Gymnastics center in Thohoyandou, has already secured two silver medals this year and is setting her sights on national and international competitions.
Tinashe’s passion for gymnastics began at age five, so much so that her mother, Mpho Zazi Makosholo – station manager at Radio Thohoyandou – recalls having to discourage her from practicing on the walls of their home.This year, Tinashe’s competitive debut began at the Louis Trichardt district championships, where she qualified for the Limpopo provincial competition. In august, she earned a silver medal at the provincial event held in Thabazimbi.
Her success continued at the inter-district competition in Johannesburg, resulting in another silver medal and eligibility for half colours.
“she is a gymnast at heart and she is so happy and proud for putting Wavhudi Gymnastics on the map,” said Makosholo. “Tinashe watches gymnastics shows on TV daily and her future plan is to continue with gymnastics and enter all the competitions,both national and international. She tells me she wants to go far with the sport and to one day own her own gymnastics club.”
Makosholo emphasized her daughter’s unwavering dedication. “She cries when she is sick and still wants to go to practice - that is how important it is to her. As a parent, I will keep on supporting her and be there for her. I will provide all the resources for her to go far and reach her goals.”
