Young judoka pushes through injury to make a podium finish at Region 5 Youth Games

The Citizen

21-07-2025

For most teenagers, winning a gold medal would be the highlight of their lives, but for 16-year-old Maxx Mackenzie, it was just the beginning.
Fresh off his victory at the Africa Cup in Pretoria, the rising judo talent powered through pain and pressure to earn a hard-fought bronze medal at the Region 5 Youth Games, representing South Africa with remarkable resilience.
The games brought together nearly 200 athletes from 10 southern African countries, including Botswana, Zambia, Angola, and host nation Namibia.
Competing in the U20 division, Maxx was one of the youngest judokas on the mat, facing opponents up to four years his senior. 'Being only 16 and fighting in the U20 category was definitely my biggest challenge, but I was ready. I upped my training, added more cardio, boxing, and weight sessions. Sensei Basil arranged extra judo sessions to make sure I was mentally and physically prepared.'
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Maxx trains at the Tatami Judo Academy under the mentorship of Sensei Basil Smith, who he credits for instilling values like perseverance, respect, and sportsmanship. His weekly routine includes evening dojo training and early-morning workouts, balanced with his love for swimming and rugby, but it was the bronze medal bout that would test, not just Maxx's skill, but his stamina and willpower as well.
'I got my opponent into a choke hold, and then an arm lock, but he just wouldn't give up,' said Maxx. 'I was two points ahead when I felt something tear in my knee. I had to hold my balance for the last 10 seconds. It was all or nothing. When the final whistle blew, and I heard people shouting my name, it was an incredible moment.'
The win came at a cost. Maxx later learned he had torn a ligament in his knee, forcing him to withdraw from the upcoming African Championships in Angola. While the news was disappointing, he remains undeterred. 'It was tough hearing I needed surgery, but I'm staying positive and focusing on recovery. I'll be supporting Team South Africa all the way and working hard to return stronger next year.'
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Maxx's long-term goals include qualifying for future African Championships and one day competing in the Olympics, a dream he approaches with steady focus and gratitude. When asked what advice he has for younger athletes, he repeated a mantra from his coach.
'Believe in yourself and have fun while doing it. And as Sensei Basil always says: 'Trust the process. ''
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