Nigel Maphosa wins Mr Zimbabwe
NIGEL “Spartan” Maphosa was crowned the 2019 Mr Zimbabwe at the 7Arts Theatre in Harare on Saturday night.

The Gweru-based hulk defied the odds to beat several athletes in the Zimpapers-sponsored event.

Speaking after the win Maphosa, who also bagged the men’s middleweight title, said he was thrilled to come out tops.

“Getting here was difficult and I thank the judges,’’ he said.

“I have worked hard to reach this far and I am now looking forward to taking part in some international contests in South Africa. I thank my team for supporting me all the way and I am happy to have managed to keep the Midlands Province in the limelight.

“Growing up, we were encouraged by some body-builders like Isaac “Sugar” Chimuchenga and today we are emulating them by winning titles.

In the women’s category, Kirsty Baxter, was the toast of the day as she won the masters bikini fitness contest.

Kylie McDonald beat Colleen Wall into second place in the Women Body Fitness while Charity Juma won the women physique.

The senior men’s body-building light-heavyweight division was very competitive.

Edward Mutero won, Ndumiso Dlodlo was second and Mathew Humphreys finished third.