The South African youth kung fu team claimed the Africa Youth Kung Fu Championships title at the continental martial arts tournament held in Goodwood.
About 90 martial arts contestants, aged 10 to 19, from South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Mauritius competed in a variety of events during the event on Saturday March 4 and Sunday March 5.
The South African team of 35 youngsters won 21 gold medals, six silver medals, and six bronze medals.
“This is a proud moment for me. My students gave it their all and showed their competitive edge against their African counterparts,” said Muhammad Junaid Chafeker, the team’s coach and championship host.
“South Africa’s toughest competition came from the Botswana youth kung fu team, a squad of 27 athletes, who came in second place with five gold, three silver and three bronze medals,” he said.
Mr Chafeker, a Legends of Kung Fu World Martial Arts champion, said he hoped the championship would become an annual event with more teams competing.
“The USA, Brazil, Mexico, and Hong Kong are also keen on sending youth teams in 2024,” he said.