Young judokas make their mark on international stage
Golden Score Judo has expressed pride after three of its students successfully competed at an international level.
Three dedicated judo students from Golden Score Judo recently competed in the Pretoria African Open 2025 as international contestants, where they achieved outstanding results.
The Pretoria African Open 2025 was hosted in late June.
Carien du Plessis (20) participated in the U63kg seniors category, where she managed to fight two competitors before falling out. Even though she lost both fights, overall, she managed to receive appreciation for her participation.
This was her second international competition. In 2023, she participated in her first international competition at the Commonwealth Championships, where she came in second place. She first started her judo journey when she was in Grade Two, and by Grade Five, she had already competed on a provincial level.
“I enjoy using the Moroto Seo Nage throw to put my opponent into submission,” she expressed.
Victor Valentine (16) competed in the U73kg cadettes and achieved second place after he fought two fights.
“I feel good about my achievement. My father first introduced me to judo when I was very young, and I grew to love the sport. I love the people, the team and the opponents. I would like to earn my black belt,” he said.
Dane van Heerden (16) also competed in the Pretoria African Open 2025 and participated in the U50kg cadettes. He took third place on the podium.
“I could have done better, but I am very happy that I placed, at least,” Dane said.
Dane has been doing judo for 11 years, and he enjoys the community of people.
