FOUR learners from Pinetown Boys’ High School are set to represent KwaZulu-Natal at the South African Wushu Championships in Johannesburg. Coming from the Steel Fit Kung Fu Club, Ndumiso Ntombela, Samela Hlophe, Sisekelo Mkhize and Siphesihle Xhakaza earned their provincial colours competing for the first time at the Provincial Kung Fu Championship.
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Speaking to the Highway Mail, their coach Kayelihle Jali said Wushu or Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art that focuses on instilling focus and discipline.
Jali said the boys were inspired by one of their fellow learners who represented South Africa at the 9th World Kung Fu Championships in China last year. “The boys approached me and asked to train with me. Their drive and interest has carried them through to this level. Though we do not have a set place for our training, this did not deter them as we managed to train every day,” he said.
Jali said the boys have depicted what the Kung Fu sport is about through their dedication. “The core principles of Wushu are discipline, dedication, order and punctuality. The training is not easy, and it teaches patience and perseverance. The boys were outstanding in the competition and walked away with two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze,” he said.
Ndumiso Ntombela said they were interested in learning Wushu after they were inspired by Luvuyolwethu Mgqibisa.
“Witnessing one of us going abroad for the sport made us believe that we could do the same. The sport has been fun, though the competitions are hard and scary, it was rewarding to win.”
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“Our aim is to stay fit, and take lessons from the previous competition. Our goal is to win the next competition in order to qualify for the World Championships that will take place in China,” said Ntombela.
The Kung Fu stars are preparing for the national competition that will take place on August 10.
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