Hanami Gi Challenge a first for Vryheid
Indoor Speedball in Vryheid will play host to the 2014 Hanami Gi-Challenge, the first tournament of its kind in South Africa, this coming Sunday, April 27.
THIS COMING Sunday, April 27, Vryheid will host the 2014 Hanami Gi-Challenge, a tournament showcasing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, at the Vryheid Indoor Speedball Centre.
The 2014 Hanami Gi-Challenge is the first tournament of its kind in Africa and organisers aim to make this event a permanent fixture on the Southern African BJJ-circuit.
The Challenge will see 33 BJJ athletes compete against each other, based on their level of experience and weight divisions.
Gold and silver medalists will then compete against each other to determine the ultimate champion of the day.
“We are excited to host the challenge in Vryheid and to see the residents in Vryheid benefit from these type of tournaments which are normally hosted in cities. Some participants are driving from as far as Stellenbosch, with another flying in from Mauritius. If you haven’t seen Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in your life before, then this is the ideal opportunity to witness BJJ athletes in action.” states Abrie Kilian, promoter of the 2014 Hanami Gi-Challenge.
Kilian is also the head instructor at Kilian Academy, an academy which trains BJJ and also says, “A few of the Vryheid athletes will be in action this weekend. Should you wish to support the local guys, wear something orange to show your support.”
Kilian is of the opinion that martial arts should be an obvious choice for people in South Africa. He adds that the practice of a martial art is ideal to promote a healthy lifestyle through fitness and improved eating habits. In addition to a healthy lifestyle, it stimulates camaraderie.
The 2014 Hanami Gi-Challenge promises to entertain those with a interest in martial arts, especially Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
