Young Bergvlam martial artist ready to deliver a knockout blow
Danielle keeps her eye on the prize through a rigorous training schedule which has seen her bring home gold from a number of tournaments.
For 14-year-old grade eight Hoërskool Bergvlam pupil, Danielle Belo, discipline, concentration and muscle memory are the keys to achieving what she has, in her chosen sport. Danielle is a budding martial arts expert who excels in a number of disciplines.
She said, “Tang Soo Do, kickboxing, grappling and sword fighting are the disciplines I have achieved gold in at the Jock of the Bushveld kickboxing tournament.” She achieved six gold medals in these disciplines and cites kickboxing and grappling as her favourites.
“I like those most because I am on the floor and because of my size, it is easier for me to move.”
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Her interest in the martial arts started at the age of four, and she immediately realised that the sport was meant for her.
“I started with Tang Soo Do and the older I got, the more disciplines I started participating in. Because my talent started showing in my performances, I started training more seriously.”
According to Danielle, she achieved one of her goals two years ago when she was named as the best student at the renowned Wolves Martial Arts Academy, where she trains The work that goes into delivering her best demands discipline and a rigorous training programme.
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“On Mondays and Tuesdays, I am at the dojo for an hour and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I dedicate three hours in preparation for the 2021 World Championships, which will be held in Asia.”
Prior to the Jock of the Bushveld tournament, Danielle brought home four gold medals at the Arnold Classic Africa after putting on a strong show in fighting, combat, weapons, stick fighting and normal form. She credits her achievements to the support she receives from her family.
“My parents push me to my fullest potential. They constantly remind me that I should not be afraid, because I know my capabilities.”
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Danielle added that the toughest opponent she has faced on the mat so far was when she was 12 years old. “I was new in the category and my opponent was 14 years old. I lost the match-up and felt demotivated, but I worked hard to ensure a victory in the next match.”
It is this same indomitable spirit the teen holds which has her flying the flag proudly for Mpumalanga.
