South African Senior Judo Team claims 9 Medals
In a resounding display of skill and determination, the South African Judo team emerged as a force to be reckoned with, securing a tally of 9 medals in the prestigious senior section of the 2023 Commonwealth Judo Championships. This impressive feat, which unfolded in Qgeberha, South Africa, from the 2nd to the 6th of August, was a testament to the team’s prowess.
The Championships drew the participation of over 250 judo athletes hailing from 20 diverse countries, competing across various categories, including Jnr, Cadet, Pre Cadet, Senior, Veterans, and the Visually Impaired sections. Team South Africa showcased its mettle, setting its sights on a grander stage, with athletes from across the globe preparing to compete for the coveted qualification spots for the 2024 Olympics in the coming year, slated to be held in the picturesque city of Paris, France.
Bronze medals in the women's section
In the senior women’s section, the talented Anastasia Nenova claimed the Bronze in the -63kg category, with India’s Himanshi Tokas clinching the gold and Alex Kelly from Northern Ireland seizing the silver. Nenova’s journey to the podium included notable victories over her fellow South African teammates, Kayla Kruger and Nichelle Coetzee, and a hard-fought battle against the eventual gold medalist, Tokas. A seasoned judoka, Nenova, now 25, initiated her judo journey at the tender age of 7, and she is resolutely focused on securing her berth at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France.
In the +78kg division, South Africa’s Suandri Groenewald showcased her prowess, earning a well-deserved Bronze medal. The gold went to India’s Kanwarpreet Kaur, while Botswana’s Lauryn Pulamoeng seized the Silver. Groenewald’s path to the podium involved an engaging match against the eventual gold medalist, Kaur, and a triumphant victory over her fellow South African compatriot, Olwethu Vena.
Several medals in men's section
Switching over to the men’s section, Kenny Van Romburgh emerged as a shining star, capturing the gold in the -81kg division. The 28-year-old displayed impressive dominance, claiming victories over Luke Montgomery from Northern Ireland, Rakesh Kumar from India, and India’s Pollob Jyoti Gohain en route to the prestigious gold medal. Van Romburgh, a rising judo talent, had earlier clinched the gold at the U20 Commonwealth Championships in Cardiff in 2012 and has also left his mark at the USSA (University Sports of South Africa) in 2016.
In the +100kg category, South Africa’s David Stockigt etched his name in gold, outshining his opponents with remarkable wins against India’s Ghangas Yash and Dominic Dugasse from the Seychelles. Stockigt, a 24-year-old judo stalwart, boasts a notable history, having secured victory in the SA Open Championships and proudly represented South Africa at the African Games. With 19 years of dedication to the sport, Stockigt’s achievements shine brightly.
In the same +100kg section, South Africa’s rising star, Anda Mbonjeni, clinched the bronze medal, displaying exceptional skills as a 21-year-old judoka. Mbonjeni’s standout performance included a captivating victory over India’s Ghangas Yash, sealing his spot on the podium.
In the -66kg category, the young talent Dewald Schultz delivered a commendable performance, securing the silver. At only 20 years old and already a national champion, Schultz showcased his potential with an impressive victory over Northern Ireland’s Easmonn Ward. His fierce gold medal match against Mozambique’s Alson Muzime narrowly eluded him, leading to a well-earned silver medal.
Another noteworthy silver medal was secured by Lwazi Mapitiza in the -100kg section. The 33-year-old Mapitiza boasts a previous Bronze medal from the African Championships and has represented South Africa at the World Judo Championships in Hungary in 2021. His exceptional triumph over India’s Virender Singh cemented his spot on the podium.
The last two bronze medals for Team South Africa were shared, with Tashen Sarju and Brendan Kruger both securing the third spot in the fiercely competitive -90kg category. Their commendable performances highlighted their dedication and skill on the judo mat.
Successful event held on South African soil
The Judo Facebook page buzzed with gratitude as athletes and enthusiasts showered praise on the South African Judo Federation for the impeccable organization and execution of the event. The triumphant championship was a resounding success, with the Municipality of Nelson Mandela Bay adding to the celebratory atmosphere by hosting a captivating media launch in the lead-up to the event.
The stage is now set for these talented South African judokas to continue their relentless pursuit of excellence, with their sights firmly fixed on the upcoming 2024 Olympics in the captivating city of Paris, France.
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