AN ISIPINGO athlete, Jarel Tobias Esterhuizen, flew the KZN flag high in the South African Kickboxing Association (Saka) National Kickboxing Championships in Newcastle from April 26 to 29. Jarel stood out among over 800 athletes representing all nine provinces.

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Sensei Seema Esterhuizen, president of the KZN Kickboxing Association, said this year’s event marked the largest national championship ever hosted by Saka, setting a new benchmark for participation and enthusiasm in the burgeoning martial art.

The championship was officially opened by Saka president, Aslam Mahomed, giving way to the best kickboxers in the country to showcase their prowess and put their hard work to the test.

Seema’s son, Jarel Tobias Esterhuizen, a Grade Nine learner at Strelitizia Secondary School, represented the KZN team, competing in the point fighting, kick light, hard style and hard style weapon categories. His strong performances earned praise from his father and instructor, Sensei Tobias, and his coach and sister, Sensei Acelia.

“Maintaining his level of commitment is key to long-term success in the sport,” said Acelia.

Seema expressed optimism for the future of kickboxing in South Africa, given its current upwards trajectory and influx of young athletes.

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