Two teenage kickboxers, who have already made their mark in their field with national titles under their belts, are competing in the international arena this week, at the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (Wako) Youth World Championship in Budapest, Hungary.
There was great excitement and pride among the Legacy Martial Arts Academy students and their parents last week as Lyle Asari and Aiden Brummer achieved their SA colours ahead of the international competition being held from 23 August to 1 September.
Aiden (15), a three-times SA champion in point fighting, will be competing in the u-63 kg Older Cadet Boys point fighting, kick light and team events. This is not the first time the talented martial arts student has been chosen to represent the country at an international event. He was first selected for the national team in 2022, but could not attend the Junior World Kickboxing Championship in Italy along with his Legacy team mate Dylan Isaacs.
Lyle (16), who ended in second place at the SA Championships in point fighting, will compete in the Junior Boys u-74 kg category in point fighting and the team event.
There were cheers from relatives and teammates as their coach, Shihan Ruehan van Romburgh, officially handed over Lyle and Aiden’s Team SA outfits and kit.
Van Romburgh inspired them to always work hard and underscored this by saying: “Success is never owned; it is rented and the rent is due every day.”
Councillor Ronald Nutt, OM Mayco Member for Community Services, congratulated Aiden and Lyle and said: “Your success is the result of hard work and dedication. Well done!”
He reminded them also to enjoy the moment. “Take time to savour this achievement, knowing that countless individuals have supported you behind the scenes. We are confident that both of you will represent Overstrand, and our country with pride and distinction.”
