Johan Botha recently came back to Makhanda (Grahamstown) having placed in the prestigious Mr World Bodybuilding competition in Taranto, Italy, 13-16 October. Botha came fourth in the Masters division of the Mr Universe competition, after months of training and preparation. An experienced bodybuilder of 25 years, Botha has won a number of accolades throughout his … Continue reading Hero of the week: Johan Botha
Hero of the week: David Blenkinsop
After the Rhodes Internal Premier League (RIPL) Cricket tournament drew to a close on Friday 28 September, David Blenkinsop was named best shot of the tournament, best newcomer of the tournament, as well as best player in his side, the Hill Challengers. However, this outstanding performance throughout the Rhodes Premier League is just the tip of the iceberg.
Hero of the week: Mziwoxolo Ndwayana
After an intense battle against the defending champion, Sean Ness, Makhanda’s Champion, Mziwoxolo Ndwayana won the South African Welterweight Championship in Johannesburg last month. This is the second championship that Ndwayana has won in his eighteen year career, with his previous belt being the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Welterweight championship.
Hero of the week: Yondela Masande Norman
Rhodes University’s Yondela Masande Norman, won the Purple Gloves Promotions Main event on Friday 21 September in his first ever amateur bout. Norman beat S.C. Ngubo by split decision in the main event of the first ever Rhodes Fight Night event.
Hero of the Week: RU’s Three Muskateers
At the end of the annual Rhodes Internal League Rugby tournament, three players topped the try scoring record, with Sino Ralo, Cameron Libera and Devon Barnard all scoring five tries each for their respective teams.
Karate women promote confidence
After what some might consider a late start to karate, Maureen de Jager has earned her third dan black belt, the prize for dedicating 14 years of her life to the discipline. “I wish I had started when I was a youngster,” said De Jager. “But I don’t believe that there is any time that is too late to start. Better start at 32 than not at all.”
Disciplined Karate
After training for 14 years, Nolusindiso Yakeni has earned her brown belt at just 20 years old. Yakeni believes that karate is empowering for women. “There are bullies and men that abuse women,” said Yakeni, “so karate can help us to defend ourselves.”
Meet the fierce karate women
As the nation celebrates women and their place in South Africa, Grocotts Mail, East Cape Shotokan-Ryu and Joza Karate Club have teamed-up to offer free karate lessons for girls (seven years and older) and women. In this spirit, focus and appreciation must be given to the women that have been practicing karate for some time.
Hero of the Week: Jade Slabbert
A rising star at Grahamstown Primary, Jade Slabbert is a talented and energetic young athlete and student. Slobber is a grade 6 pupil at Grahamstown Primary, who is passionate about sport, focusing on cricket and rugby in particular.
Hero of the Week: Rozario Fourie
Rozario Fourie is a talented young rugby player from Oatlands Preparatory School. The Grade 5 pupil has been playing exceptionally on the rugby field since he started at Oatlands, and even received an award from the school in 2016.
Stephen Kisbey-Green Photography 