JOHANNESBURG – Johannesburg was the centre of martial arts excellence as it hosted the 24th African Tang Soo Do Championship from October 3 to 5, bringing together 160 athletes from South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Seychelles under Region 14 of the World Tang Soo Do Association.
The event featured both men’s and women’s divisions across Children, Junior, Adult, and Senior categories for coloured and black belts. Over three days, competitors demonstrated precision, discipline, and strength in a celebration of African talent and unity in martial arts.
Among the distinguished guests was Senior International Master Johnny Williamson, a seventh-dan black belt and Chairman of the World Tang Soo Do Association Business Committee in the United States, who led a seminar on martial arts school management and administration on the opening day.
The highlight of the first day also included black belt testing, where nine candidates successfully achieved new rankings, one from Seychelles, two from Botswana, one from South Africa, and five from Mozambique.
South Africa’s medal tally
Team South Africa delivered an outstanding performance, securing a total of 45 medals, including 11 gold, 17 silver, and 17 bronze. The team also brought home three championship trophies, with Nicole Burgers named Adult Female Dan Champion, Jan Bezuidenhoudt taking the Senior Male Gup title, and Mohammed Modou Ndiaye crowned Senior Male Dan Champion.
The final day of the championship concluded with seminars, workshops, and a traditional Tang Soo Do family picnic.
More than medals: promoting unity and values
According to Nicole Burgers, Country Director for the World Tang Soo Do Association in South Africa, the event represented more than competition.
“Beyond trophies and medals, the championship served as an opportunity to develop the sport and strengthen ties between athletes and regional leaders in an environment defined by respect, discipline, and dedication — the fundamental values of Tang Soo Do,” she said.
The event was made possible through the support of athletes’ families and sponsors, notably MotoData and MycroKleen.
Special acknowledgment was also extended to Mr. David Foley, Ward Councillor for Ward 94 in Kyalami, Johannesburg, and Mr. Evandro Schwalbach, Director for Region 14 (Africa) of the World Tang Soo Do Association, for their ongoing support.
The South African delegation expressed pride in their collective effort and the spirit of perseverance shown by all competitors, underscoring the country’s growing presence in the international Tang Soo Do community.
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