The sixth annual Taekwon-Do Friendship Games were held at the Primrose Wrestling Club, on August 30.
Taekwon-Do clubs from across Johannesburg and other parts of the country were represented at the tournament, where 133 competitors showcased their talent.
“I am pleased with the turn-out at the tournament; there is growth in the number of participants and a huge improvement in the skills of the competitors every year,” said one of the main organisers, Michelle Rahl.
“This is the last friendship tournament of the year; after this we will be preparing for the South African Championships, that will take place in October, in Port Elizabeth.”
The juniors at the tournament showed maturity by applying what their instructors advised them on during the short breaks. They also showed full commitment to the competition.
Among those present was Khutso Mokoena, a special needs competitor.
Half of the right side of his body is paralysed, as a result of an accident that occurred years back.
“A gate fell on top of me when I was one,” said Mokoena.
He is a member of the Pilsung Taekwon-Do Club, in Kempton Park, but also trains with his Germiston-based instructor, Kobus Vorster.
”This was his first friendship tournament, but he managed to get three gold medals; we are all proud of him,” said Vorster.
The 19-year-old is determined to excel in this sporting code.
“My tournament experience was great, I feel like I can climb on top of the world,” he said.
”I have a yellow belt, but I’m working hard towards getting a black belt.”I want to have my own dojo for disabled people; I want to encourage them to succeed and show them that they can do anything in the world that they aspire to.”
Mokoena received the three medals for patterns, braking and sparring.
“He was the only one who could brake, it was an absolute pleasure watching this young man in action,” explained Vorster.
Cold and hot drinks were available, together with other refreshments, and these kept the spectators busy as they shook off the chilly wind by cheering on the participants, who, in turn, gave the spectators exciting matches to watch.
Clayton Campbell and Adam Pilane go head-to-head during one of their rounds at the tournament.
