Plantation judoka Bernice Klaasens (19) was recently selected to compete in the South African Open in July in Qgeberha (PE).
Bernice is not only a member athlete of Valhalla Judo & Fitness, but also the coach for the academy’s ladies-only judo classes, where they offer girls and women the chance to train in a comfortable environment under a champion black belt sensei.
The judoka has competed for the last 12 years since she started judo at age six.
“It’s an honour and a blessing to compete. There have been many ups and down in all these years, but I was granted the best opportunity to compete.
“In most tournaments I entered, I secured either silver or gold. Last year was the first time I went to another country (Kenya) to represent SA in the African Championships, placing fifth.
“I qualified to represent SA in the Region V Games in Malawi, placing second. I also went to the SA Championships in Port Elizabeth, where I came second,” she explained.
For Bernice, judo is more than just a sport. “It’s my passion and something I work hard to improve daily in training.”
She is in need of financial support from sponsors to compete in the SA Open and a string of inter-school tournaments leading to the All Africa Judo Open and the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
Anybody who can assist may call Bernice on 072 043 5280.
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