Tebbutt’s takes on the world

Tebbutt’s Mixed Martial Arts Academy members shone at the ISKA World Championships, in America, during July.

July 27, 2016

1 minute read

Nine members of Tebbutt’s Mixed Martial Arts Academy competed in the ISKA World Championships, in Orlando, recently. Tristan Myers (13, back, left), sensei Tiffany Knoop, sensei Allan Visagie, senpey Brandon Myers (16), kancho Alex Tebbutt, Cassie Shihan, senpey Logan Stadler (14), Peyton-Jade Visagie (15, front, left) and Casey Stadler (10, front, right) were thrilled with their results in the tournament.

Nine members of Lambton-based Tebbutt’s Mixed Martial Arts Academy recently made the trip to Orlando, in America, to compete in the ISKA World Championships.

The competing team was made up of Tristan Myers (13), sensei Tiffany Knoop, sensei Allan Visagie, senpey Brandon Myers (16), kancho Alex Tebbutt, Cassie Shihan, senpey Logan Stadler (14), Peyton-Jade Visagie (15) and Casey Stadler (10).

The competition saw approximately 4 500 participants from 40 countries competing over two days.

The South African team clinched top honours, with Tebbutt’s being recognised as a world class club.

The club walked away with five first place, 10 second place and nine third place trophies, as well as 21 medals and full Protea colours.

Members competed in various styles, including weapons, traditional kata, creative form, continuous fighting and point fighting.

“It was a very tough tournament, with up to 18 competitors in each division,” explained Tebbutt.

“I am very proud of the performances of all my students, they were committed and disciplined.”

This year saw Tebbutt not only helping with the organisation of the event and coaching, he also competed for the first time since 1992.

“It’s amazing to be back,” he said.

“People were surprised that a 67-year-old walked away with two golds, as well as a second and a third place trophy after years of not competing.”

Peyton-Jade Visagie, who has been training at the academy for nine years, was among the members who travelled to Orlando.

“Our club did exceptionally well and I am very proud to be part of this club,” she said.

Visagie was thrilled to have had the opportunity to compete internationally.

“Thank you to Cerbin, Omni Projects, James Graham Financials and Afrikaanse Hoërskool Germiston for their support and sponsorship, and to kancho Alex for the amazing training,” she added.

“Finally, thank you to my dad, Allan Visagie, for all he has done and still does for me,” she said.

The club is now preparing for the South Africa Championships, which will be held in Cape Town, followed by the Eastern Gauteng Championships.