Punches and kicks for South Africa
NORTHGATE – World Martial Arts Games held in South Africa for the first time.
South Africa had the honour of hosting the 10th annual World Martial Arts Games at the Ticketpro Dome.
Martial art competitors from around the world came to the dome to compete in the different disciplines including Korean and Japanese empty hand forms, wooden and bladed weapons, Karate-Kumite, Jiu Jitsu, kickboxing, traditional forms, grappling, breaking events, sparring, team events and much more.
Age categories ranged from young to old and girls and boys competed in the three-day event from 14 to 16 October. The dome was completely packed with competitors.
Gregory Hart, master instructor at the Alchemy Centre in Cresta, said it is difficult for some of the competitors to travel overseas, so this is such a great event for them to get international exposure.
“Martial arts is a great sport to compete in as a family. It is not only a physical sport but also builds character and self-discipline,” said Hart.
Jenna Little, also from the Alchemy Centre, is a member of the South African martial arts team. In the games, Little received a silver medal in creative weapons, silver in bladed weapons and a gold in open hand. “It was all very stressful,” she joked.
Lenka Liphoko and Luke Kaminsky talked about their experience at the games. “It is worth the hard work and the satisfied feeling you get when you compete,” said Kaminsky. Liphoko mentioned that this was a very nice event.
Another Proteas team member, Natalie Duligal won a gold, three bronze medals and one silver medal. “I love this sport. It is something nice to work hard towards,” she said.
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