VAALPARK – For the Yonsei Goju-Ryu Karate & Kobudo Organisation 2024 was a year to be proud of.
A year full of highlights and unforgettable experiences such as touring Germany in October.
Kaicho James Vermaak, chief instructor of the Honbu Dojo in Vaalpark lead the contingent of 12 students to participate in the prestigious International ICO Championships.
This event was not just a competition but a journey that involved months of rigorous practice and countless hours of preparation.
The effort paid off, with the team winning 14 gold medals, 15 silver medals, and 7 bronze medals.
Kaicho James was also elected by the World International Combat Organisation (ICO) as the World Traditional Director for Karate and Kobudo. He also hosted a seminar in Victoria, Australia, organised by Clinton Vermaak.
He had the honour of grading several athletes. In early December Vermaak and his team hosted the National Black Belt Gash-Ku at Koedoeslaagte in Parys.
Annually this event is a defining moment when the athletes showcase their hard work and earn their rightful places as senior black belts.
2024 was historic as several students received internationally accredited black belts.
