“This was an extraordinary championship with different rules,” said Shihan Aslam Mohamed, chief instructor of the dojo and tournament director.
Mohamed is also the president of United Martial Arts International.
“There was no individual fighting, but points were scored as a team with the exception of our ‘Tiny Tots’ fighting in the u-6 age group.
“The UMAI Benoni team won almost every division in their respective categories.
“Every Benoni student won a medal at this competition which shows the level of fighting ability from these kick-boxers.
“The championship was exciting and was the first ever team championship held in South Africa.
“Our ‘Dream Team’ made their debut appearance at this championship and won both the senior male and female open kick-boxing divisions.
“In addition, the tournament hosted the Canadian national kickboxing team which also competed against South Africa making this championship an international event.
“The South Africans did exceptionally well against the Canadians by winning more team titles than them.
“We had teams from all the provinces in South Africa participating and it will now become an annual event.
“Seeing different clubs working together to create teams showed great unity and that’s what we strive for in sport.”
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za