Young kung fu athlete rises through the ranks after 9-year journey
Ghumayd Goolam turns childhood dreams into kung fu success.
Ghumayd Goolam (21) recently competed in the United World Martial Arts Federation (UWMAFSA) Open Championship at Patterson Park in Norwood.
His kung fu journey began in 2016, when ShiGong MJ Li, an eight-time gold medallist, visited his school and offered free classes through a youth development programme.
“I always wanted to do kung fu, but we couldn’t afford it,” said Goolam. “When the opportunity came, I signed up straight away.”
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Inspired by martial arts movies he used to watch with his late father, Goolam’s passion only grew stronger over time.
Now a BCom Law student, he has spent the last nine years balancing studies and intense training. “I kept reminding myself why I started and who I’m doing this for.”
Despite nerves heading into his first multi-discipline championship, he focused on his preparation and stayed grounded.
As vice-captain, he felt proud seeing his junior teammates compete outside the Western Cape for the first time.
Looking ahead, Goolam hopes to earn his senior Protea colours next year, his 10th year of training, and compete in his first world championship. “I never thought I’d come this far, but hard work and belief made it possible.”
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