De Beers take on S.A Championships
Following their selection and participation in the South African Kickboxing Championships held in Pretoria, from April 29 to May 1, Warren (41) and Angie (42) De Beer of the XKT Springs Kickboxing Club have made their club proud after putting up what proved to be both challenging yet rewarding fights against their opponents.
Warren, who participated in the veterans division, placed second against his opponent, Gerhard Launcher.
“I gave my best shot in what was a very trying and draining fight,” says Warren, “so I am very proud of what I have achieved.”
Lynette Wheeler, who was Angie’s opponent in the ladies’ open veterans division, gave Angie a solid fight to the end, after which Angie came in at fourth position.
“It was an extremely tough fight,” explains Angie, “which required a lot of commitment, discipline and mental preparation to perform my best, which I did.”
Prior to the South African Kickboxing Championships, the de Beers partook in the kick-boxing trials in February, which qualified them for the Great North Championships, in which they placed third.
“The Great North Championships are a big qualifier for the SA Championships,” explains Warren. “They are just above provincial level, and it is where different club members from all the provinces compete. Once you have placed in any of the top three positions, you become eligible to participate in the SA Champs.”
Rina Labuschagne, the owner of the club, says she is very proud of Warren and Angie, detailing how hard they work and contribute towards the successful training of club members.
She explains that Warren is her assistant instructor, who is just as passionate about nurturing young talent as he is about introducing the sport to beginners.
“They have both made me very proud, just for qualifying for the championships,” she says.”The positions at which they placed are just a bonus.”
