VANDERBIJLPARK. – Six fighters and two officials from Tri Dragons Martial Arts Academy (TDSMA) in Vanderbijlpark, together with thirteen other athletes from Sedibeng, recently participated in the South African Kickboxing Championships in Mossel Bay.
The two officials and the four fighters from TDSMA were elected to represent SA at the WAKO 17th All Africa Continent Championships.
The results of all categories and styles at this event determined the participants for the World Combat Games, to be held in Saudi Arabia in 2023.
This was only the first of many milestones and achievements for this sport in the Vaal. As yet, only one fighter in the Vaal has previously participated in the Africa Games.

It was also the first time that the championships took place on South African soil.
More exciting news is that two local female officials, Estelle van Rensburg and Sensei Maralize van der Westhuizen were selected as internationally qualified WAKO officials to promote safety and fair play during the event.
Shihan Brandin Fourie was selected as national coach for the SA team. Another first for the Vaal.
Two fighters from TDS obtained medal placings. Sempei Cindy van Wyk earned two silver medals in the Women over 70kg category. Shihan Fourie earned four gold medals, being crowned champion in two weight divisions. This was also a first in the history of the championships.
According to Fourie, co-founder and vice chairperson of the Sedibeng Kickboxing Association, although his achievements are highlights in his career, he wants to emphasize the importance and the need for growth of women’s participation in this sport.
Apart from Cindy, Maralize and Estelle’s achievements three more female athletes set the bar for future championships. Winuska van Straaten (silver) and Lezane van Schalkwyk (bronze) from Meyerton as well as Rachelle Wormald from the Mighty Warriors club participated.
Rachelle won gold and was the first ever female from the Vaal to be crowned in the full contact (low kick) division at the African Championship.
Vian Singleton and DJ Jacobs were also crowned as the first Junior African male champions.