Kung Fu master MJ Li and his team struck gold in China, kicking the competition’s butt at the Hong Kong International Kung Fu Championship and Tournament.
The squad, led by Junaid “MJ Li” Chafeker, left the country earlier this month, ready to better their haul of last year by bringing home more gold.
And they stuck to their goals by bringing home no fewer than SIX gold and two silver medals.
MJ Li says the team outdid themselves and did South Africa proud.
“The South African Youth Kung Fu Development Squad were wonderful ambassadors in Hong Kong and their achievements at the current championships could contribute towards Kung Fu becoming popular among youth across the country,” he said.
The tournament took place in the city of Ma On Shan from 10 to 14 April.
The nine-member team competed in full contact matches and group synchronised events against more than 6500 athletes from 36 countries.
MJ Li himself won three gold medals in the Tai chi, Weapons and Bare Hand Dual divisions.
Salma Natalie Doran, who competed as the first South African female at the tournament, bagged gold in the ladies beginners’ division.
Eleven-year-old Saifullah Chafeker, who is differently abled, won first place competing against able-bodied junior athletes under the age of 12.
Another 11-year-old, Muhajir Abrahams, finished second and Sinawo Yola, 17, also won the team’s second silver medal.
The team capped off their gold run by winning the Team Synchronised event.
MJ Li says they enjoyed a night out on the Star Ferry as they sailed from Victoria Harbour, enjoying the lights of the colourful city.
They also did Jumu’ah prayers at the iconic Kowloon Mosque.
MJ Li thanked their sponsors, including the City of Cape Town, various departments in the provincial government, and local businesses such as Winners Supermarket, Spice Mecca and Osman’s Stores.
You can help welcome the winning team home at the Cape Town International Airport on Tuesday at 1.30pm.
robin.francke@inl.co.za