Latest news with #SaintStithians'
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Diepkloof sensei officiates top regional karate event
Diepkloof's very own sensei, Thabo Molubi of the Kofukan South Africa Karate Team, has once again made the township proud. This time, he represented the country as a referee at the SADC Region South Karate Championships, held in Durban from May 23 to 25. This annual tournament is one of the most prestigious karate events in the Southern African region. Last year, it was hosted in Swakopmund, Namibia. 'This year, the championships were originally set to take place in Botswana, but due to logistical challenges, the event was relocated to Durban, South Africa,' said Sensei Molubi. ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang 'The tournament attracts karatekas from across the SADC region, including Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Angola, South Africa, Mozambique, Eswatini, and Lesotho.' More than 500 karate athletes participated, and Durban's shores welcomed tourists and supporters from all across Southern Africa. Molubi was selected by Karate South Africa to serve as a technical official and referee. He also holds a position on the SADC Region South Referees Commission, by virtue of his role as Chairman of the Referees Commission for Karate South Africa. ALSO READ: Development rugby takes centre stage at Saints SportsFest day 4 'During the first two days, we conducted referee and coach courses and managed the weigh-ins for all athletes. I was honoured to be appointed as a Tatami Manager for the actual competition,' he shared. Molubi noted the high standard of competition and the fierce determination shown by all participating countries. 'Saturday was dedicated mainly to kata events, followed later by children's kumite. South African athletes performed exceptionally well, winning most of the kata divisions,' he added. The energy in the venue was electric, with spectators—particularly parents—turning out in large numbers to cheer on the athletes and support the event's positive cause. The South African senior women's team triumphed over Angola in the finals, securing a gold medal and a trophy. The senior men's team also claimed victory against Angola in a tightly contested final match, winning by a narrow point margin. South Africa closed the championships with an outstanding performance, finishing with 56 gold, 43 silver and 56 bronze medals. This brought the country's total to an impressive 155 medals. ALSO READ: It's a wrap for day 3 of St Stithians sports festival 'I felt truly proud to represent South Africa and my township of Diepkloof,' said Molubi. 'I encourage all parents to get their children involved in sport. It opens doors and creates opportunities for the youth. Anyone interested in joining our Kofukan South Africa Karate Team is welcome to contact me at 079 921 3600.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
01-06-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Dunvegan Primary unveils new multi-purpose sports courts
Dunvegan Primary School officially opened its multi-purpose courts on May 24. The event was held in conjunction with the school's open day and its winter sports day, which featured soccer and netball. The school's deputy principal, Graeme Mitchley, said having an open day on the same day was 'great' for the parents visiting the school to witness all the activities. ALSO READ: Local sportswoman breaks barriers in cricket umpiring The school previously had three netball courts, but they were in poor condition. 'We've also decided to incorporate the official opening of the multi-purpose courts on the day. We were considering either resurfacing them or providing courts that could be used for multiple sports — that's why we call them multi-purpose courts. 'We also wanted a different surface to allow for various line markings. 'These courts are now suitable for netball, soccer, and hockey, and can also be used by the learners for PE during the day,' said Mitchley. The three courts will now serve multiple functions. Additionally, the previous netball courts didn't have fencing around them. With the new fencing, the courts now allow proper games to be played safely. The earlier courts lacked sides or netting, but with the new improvements, three teams can simultaneously play on the courts. Richard Laidley, the school principal, said sport at school level was crucial. 'It's about developing the whole child, not just one aspect such as culture or academics, but all of these together. Sport adds that extra element. 'The multi-purpose courts also have the advantage that even if they get wet, players can still utilise them. Grass can become too wet to play on, but these courts remain usable all year round.' ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang The revamp of the courts was made possible through school fees paid by the parents. 'I think it's nice for the parents to see their money being well spent. For me, the most important thing is that these courts will benefit every single child at the school, from Grade One to Grade Seven,' added Mitchley. The School Governing Body chairperson, Khakhu Muthaphuli, described the event as a flagship day for the school. She said this is something the school looks forward to every year. 'New parents who have heard about Dunvegan are curious and fascinated. They come to our open day, walking the grounds and asking questions. Sometimes I join in to see the vibrancy and curiosity. 'The school has a very good reputation — it is well-maintained and well-run, which we are very proud of,' said Muthaphuli. ALSO READ: Development rugby takes centre stage at Saints SportsFest day 4 'This day is very significant because we are also officially opening our multi-purpose courts. We hope there will be plenty of games, many memories made, and friendships built here. 'Across this whole field, there are over six sporting areas available, and we are very proud of that. As parents, we are proud of the teachers and management of the school, as well as our learners,' she added. She also thanked the parents for their contributions. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
28-04-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Horizon Karate Centre earns 77 medals at provincials
Horison — The Horizon Karate Centre is riding high after a stellar performance at the provincial championships that took place at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg. The team secured a total of 77 medals and set the stage for their upcoming participation in the SA JKA National Championships. Among the medal tally, Horizon's members claimed 34 gold, 19 silver, and 24 bronze. Notably, 12 of the gold medalists achieved double golds, showcasing exceptional versatility and dominance in their respective categories. ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang 'We have worked incredibly hard as a team, and it has all paid off. I am incredibly proud of every one of our students,' said Sensei Wendy Wannenburg (6th Dan). 'This success is a testament to their commitment and the spirit of our dojo.' As a result of their outstanding achievements, 61 karateka from the dojo have qualified to represent Gauteng at the upcoming SA JKA National Championships taking place in Johannesburg in May. 'This year's championships are significant as they incorporate the JKA Africa Cup,' said Wendy. The Horizon Karate Centre has, over the years, cultivated a reputation for excellence, consistently producing skilled martial artists who excel in competitions. ALSO READ: Match report: Northcliff High back to winning ways at St Stithians Sportsfest As the dojo gears up for the prestigious national championships, anticipation and excitement are palpable among the team members. With their eyes set on bringing home even more accolades, the athletes are committed to maintaining their rigorous training regimen. 'Our goal is to continue this impressive streak and showcase what we've accomplished,' added Wendy. 'The upcoming nationals will be a true test of our skills, resilience and unity as a team.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
26-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
All eyes on SA Safari Rally from May 18 to 24
All eyes on SA Safari Rally from May 18 to 24 SA will make motorsport history when the country hosts round three of the SA Safari Rally from May 18 to 24. The event is part of the prestigious World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). The inaugural event, presented by event partner Toyota Gazoo Racing, is no ordinary event. It's a global spotlight moment – and SA is ready to shine. 'This is a defining moment for motorsport in SA,' said Vic Maharaj, the CEO of Motorsport South Africa. ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang 'It's about more than racing. It's about showcasing our talent, terrain and ability to deliver world-class events. 'With SA-manufactured cars making up more than half of the field, a testament to our engineering excellence and deep motorsport roots, having the event on our home ground for the first time is exciting. We believe this could open doors to even bigger opportunities, including F1, in the future.' Anton Roux, the chairperson of Motorsport South Africa, concurred, 'This event has the potential to pave the way for many more international motorsport events in SA. It is most probably the largest international event SA has hosted since the last Formula 1 was held at Kyalami in 1993.' 'With entries closing at the end of April, the lineup of top local and international participants is growing, and fans can expect to see some of the biggest names in international rally-raid on local soil,' said Archie Rutherford, the CEO of SA Rally Raid Championship. ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang Exciting news for South Africans is the inclusion of Ross Branch, Botswana's homegrown FIM W2RC champion and fan favourite 'Kalahari Ferrari', riding with Hero Motorsports. Dakar Rally legend Giniel de Villiers will come out of retirement to be part of #TeamHiluxRallyRaid for the next two seasons. 'Having Giniel on board is like adding a turbocharger to our team. He brings unmatched experience and passion to the track,' said teammate Fouché Blignaut. Nasser Al-Attiyah and Edouard Boulanger are expected to be part of the event. But Al-Attiyah will face some stiff local competition. Bracing up are the young guns from Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa, Saood Variawa and Guy Botterill, Neil Woolridge, Motorsport's (Neil Woolridge Motorsport) Gareth Woolridge and 2023 SA Rally Raid Champion and Century Racing's Brian Baragwanath. From Sun City to the desert dunes, the W2RC route will test the best of the best in a uniquely African setting. 'This is the moment we've worked so hard for. The world is watching – and we're almost ready,' concluded Rutherford. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
