POLOKWANE – The Limpopo Fencing Association celebrated the achievements of its top athletes for their outstanding performances in local and national competitions during the 2024 fencing season at an award ceremony held in Polokwane on October 6.
The event began with an exciting exhibition match featuring fencers Gloria Bopape from the Ditlalemeso Fencing Club, Renuka Ramroop, Phetho Mashiane from the University of Limpopo, and Rahul van Manen from the Sello Maduma Fencing Academy.
Renuka Ramroop, chairperson of the Limpopo Fencing Association, highlighted the purpose of the demonstration match.
“We wanted to showcase the sport of fencing to our stakeholders and government officials present at the event. We aim to raise awareness and will be visiting schools across the province to promote fencing,” Ramroop explained.
Among the evening’s top honorees was Rahul van Manen, who took home both the junior fencer of the year and senior fencer of the year awards.
Other notable winners included Jonathan Mathete and Precious Thoka, who were named cadet fencers of the year, while Hlulani Hlatshwayo and Simon Letsoalo shared the most improved fencer of the year award.
“This season has been exceptional, as we were able to send more fencers to national competitions than ever before. Excellence deserves recognition, and tonight was about celebrating our achievements,” Ramroop added.
The event also saw the attendance of officials from the Department of Sport, as well as the Limpopo Sport Confederation, who were thanked for their support.
