Kickboxers win at nationals, to represent SA in Europe
“We wish them all the best for the upcoming world championships.”
The United Martial Arts International (UMAI) Club enjoyed a stellar run at the South African Kickboxing Association (SAKA) National Championships in Lephalale from April 28 to 30.
The club’s four athletes won every category they participated in, and the competition attracted over 500 athletes from across the country.
Benoni Muslim School’s Ahmad Mahomed attained six national titles for point-fighting, light contact, kick-light and forms. He also won the junior champ of champions’ title.
He also participated in the grand champion category against senior athletes, winning the title and becoming the best fighter in the country.
“This was phenomenal and a first in South Africa,” said the UMAI’s owner and instructor, Aslam Mahomed.
The instructor also congratulated Summerfields Primary learner Salaamah Mahomed and Benoni Muslim School’s Saahirah Katz for their performances at the national showpiece.
Salaamah won four national titles for point-fighting, light contact, kick-light and forms, while Saahirah claimed three titles for point-fighting, light contact and kick-fight.
“This is extraordinary for such young athletes,” Aslam said.
Hannes Castelyn increased the club’s tally after claiming the national title for ring sport low-kicks in the senior male low-kick category.
“All these athletes trained hard to achieve such astonishing results. They were undefeated in the competition,” Aslam said.
Aslam, who is also the SAKA president, the WAKO Africa continental president and a WAKO IF board director, added that he was pleased to see women taking the forefront of the sport.
Ahmad and Salaamah will head to Türkiye for the Turkish Open World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO) World Cup in Istanbul from May 17 to 22. Ahmad will then head to Budapest to participate in the 28th Hungarian Kickboxing World Cup next month.
“We wish them all the best for the upcoming world championships,” said Aslam.
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