Ballito locals shine at the Arnold Classic
From white belts to black belts every member of the team, between the ages of 6 to 52, displayed great technique and skill against their opponents.
Athletes from all over South Africa gathered to compete at the prestigious Arnold Classic Africa 2019 sports festival, which took place in Sandton from 16 to 19 May.
Under the training and guidance of Master Vladimir Grachev, a local team of Global Taekwon-Do and Hapkido students from Ballito Martial Arts Masters Academy, represented the North Coast against some of Africa’s top martial arts competitors.
From weapons combat and traditional patterns, to sparring these athletes put their courage, integrity and discipline to the test on the mat.
From white belts to black belts every member of the team, between the ages of 6 to 52, displayed great technique and skill against their opponents.
The younger competitors showed that age is just a number, with 9-year-old Nehal Mahadeo receiving a gold medal for continuous sparring and Tai Smith (9) receiving a silver medal for traditional patterns and silver for continuous sparring.
13-year-old Josh Lebenon won two gold medals in his category for continuous sparring and for patterns.
In total the team proudly brought home 33 medals between them.
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