Bishamon Sports Chanbara Club claimed the 5th edition of the National Championship after defeating United Sports Chanbara at the National Paralympic Committee (NPC-Rwanda) gymnasium on Sunday.

The Kabuga-based Bishamon beat United 2-0 in the final to win the national title for the first time and end Susanoo Sports Club’s four-year dominance.

Bishamon Sports Chanbara Club’s winning trio included; Eloi Mfuranzima, Pascal Ishimwe and Yvan Hategekimana, while United Sports Chanbara Club losing team comprised; Athanase Nsabimana, Christian Ishimwe and Rodrigue Hakizimana.

Bishamon Sports Club Team captain, Eloi Mfuranzima said, "We are happy to win the national championship for the first time.” Last year, Bishamon Sports Club, which was formed four years ago, finished third.

Each team consists of three players—five clubs took part in this year’s championship, an increase from the three that competed at last year’s edition. This year, there were 20 participants, who competed in individual capacity.

In the individual category, Emmanuel Rafiki won the senior men’s free Kodachi contest, Steven Rukundo took the junior’s title, while the senior women’s title was won by Florance Uwimanimpaye and the junior’s was claimed by Solange Muyizere.

Rwanda Sports Chanbara Federation, Secretary General, Jean Claude Rugigana said, "The championship has been a total success, in terms of numbers and level of competition.”

Susanoo Sports Club, who came into the championship as the defending champions, finished last behind Samurai Sports Chanbara Club and Katana Sports Chanbara Club.

Sports Chanbara was introduced in Rwanda in 2013. Chanbara uses safe equipment and lets participants battle at 100% of their strength power and capability, without the risk of injury.

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