Zimbabwean 12 year-old girl defies odds to become first female motocross champion

A Zimbabwean female motocross rider is more determined to venture in this rare extreme sport.

Tanya Muzinda started her career when she was 5 years old and was at times perceived to be a boy.

At 12 years old now, Tanya has inspired many young generation never to give up on their dreams by pursuing what they think will raise them up.

“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.

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 said.

Tanya’s father, Tawanda Muzinda has been at the frontline to encourage her daughter to excel in her career as a sports lady.

“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’s dream is to ultimately become the first female motocross athlete from Africa to reach international success and to show boys and girls that they can do anything if they commit to the hard work.