VANDERBIJLPARK – A group of junior kickboxing athletes from Tri Dragons Martial Arts Academy in Vanderbijlpark has raised the Vaal flat high at the South African Kickboxing (SAKA) National Championships in Lephalale.

This is after a group of Sextet was selected to participate in the annual mixed martial art nationals, where they kicked beyond expectations.

Breaking the boundaries, the academy’s Austin Coetzee (15) black belt, won triple gold in his weight and style categories.

Adding as a cherry on top, the team’s rookie fighter, Diandre Van Zyl (7) took on fighters in the advance blue to black divisions and obtained third place.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Shihan Bandin Fourie, owner of the club said he took a leap of faith and came back with a bunch of crowned stars.

“We attended the nationals in Lephalale with my youngster and they all exceeded all expectations by bringing a bunch of medals during the competitions. All six athletes came back with a medal or two, however, a duo was crowned champions of the competition in different categories,” he said.

Brandin said he was happy to have brought back accolades for his juniors and the winning speaks to growth.

“I feel positive for the growth of this sport. Knowing that my team is doing so well makes me feel proud as a coach,” he said.

Karin Barnard, grandmother to Diandre said they never had hope that their grandson would win a competition at this age.

“We didn’t think we would let him go do competitions but then Sehan Brandin advised us that we let him try them out. He obtained three bronze medals in north three, and in the Sedibeng competition phase, he received one silver and one bronze. He went to nationals and won and obtained two bronzes,” she said.

“He seems to be enjoying kickboxing and we are very proud of him. It’s good to see him doing so well. We didn’t think he would do good during the competitions but he surprised us all,” said Karin.