Dozens of fans were treated to a line-up of talented fighters from all over the province, showcasing their skills. The action-filled tourney left spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the day as young and old in all gender competed for top spots.

Speaking to Ster South, Brandin Fourie, said the tournament was last held in the year 2000.

“The Great North 2 Vaal Challenge is an age-old tournament that I myself competed in it when I won my first national in the year 2000. The tournament was first hosted 25 years ago, but since my participation, this is the first time we have hosted it again in this very same hall,” he said.

“The tournament is one of four regional tournaments where students compete to see who is the best in the northern region.

Some of the regions such as ours (Sedibeng), use these tournaments as part of their squad selection processes,” he added.

“Over 41 clubs attended this event, with 240 athletes competing for honours.

“Some of the top three clubs that garnered the most medals include the Red Dragons from Hartbeespoort, Fighters ST from Carletonville, and our very own hosting club, Tri Dragons,” he said.

“My students did very well with 19 junior fighters bringing home 16 gold medals, 18 silver, and 9 bronze.

The tournament turned out a great success.

“Many of the other instructors and clubs commended us on successfully hosting this event,” he said.

Following the successful hosting of this event, Fourie said they are considering bidding to host the 2024 National Kickboxing Championships.

“We are looking towards it as this will not just boost our clubs in the Vaal, but also the community and its economy,” Fourie concluded.