The Gunji Koizumi Judo club clinched two medals in its first-ever SA National Judo Championship held at the Vista University in Gqeberha from Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 June.
A gold medal went to Kenneth Kholekile Siqwepu, a teacher, in the u-90 kg male category, while a bronze medal was won by Iviwe Mpeto from Sivuyiseni Primary School in Lower Crossroads.
Team coach Tsepo Nashwa said in the competition GK Judo sent seven athletes and one official for participation in four categories.
In the u-44 kg female category were Zipho Mrulekana from Sivuyiseni, who finished fourth, and Indiphile Madolo from Ikhwezilesizwe Primary School.
In u-42 kg male category the two representatives were Iviwe Mpeto, who won a bronze medal, and Ntokozo Sihlahla from Harry Gwala High School.
Among the tough u-73 kgs were males Manqoba Kubheka and Misokuhle Gulwa, while the u-90 kg male Master chosen, winning gold, was Sensei Kholekile Siqwepu.
Nashwa and Lux Madubedube expressed pride in the achievements, having surpassed their targets.
None of the female categories produced any medals for the club, although both girls showed integrity and strength, said Nashwa. “That’s why we need to re-evaluate the training for female athletes.
“As the coach I hope the success will motivate all GK judo athletes to be able to give their best performance in each judo competition. I hope this would motivate other GK Judo athletes to always give their best in each competition.”
The duo believes they need more members in their communities to make sure that the sport is integrated and transformed, hence the club has made it possible to attend the SAs in Gqeberha.
“It was through the support of most parents that it happened, without any form of sponsorship from the companies we have approached,” Nashwa said. “We have travelled using the resources of our own pockets and have managed to achieve our goal as a club.”
The coaches welcome any form of support from any company or stakeholders wishing to invest in their club.