Five Goldfields dancers are heading to the 2026 Dutch Open Festival and Congress, scheduled for 9 to 15 November in Assen, Netherlands.
This premier ballroom and Latin dance event features competitions for all age groups, including juvenile, junior, youth, amateur, senior, and professional categories.
The Goldfields dancers excelled during the 2025 National Dancing Competition held at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town on 13 and 14 December.
The dancers represent the Mega Fitness Dance Club in Kutlwanong, which offers ballroom and Latin American instruction, including cha-cha-cha as the introductory dance.
Head coach Mpho Thulo leads the club alongside manager Mantwa Mathe-Thulo.
“Leading up to the National Championship, dancers participated in a series of competitions across four provinces called the Super Series,” explains Thulo.
Leading up to nationals
“To qualify, dancers must achieve first or second place in competition series, with a minimum of three series required to earn qualifying points.”
The provinces hosting the 2025 Super Series included Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and North West, with the Western Cape ultimately hosting the national championships.
Despite their limited experience ranging from six months to two years the dancers achieved remarkable results.
Reaoboka Makolotsa (6) and Nadia Mathe (8), dancing together for 11 months, secured first position in the juvenile Latin championship category.
Brother-sister duo Sibusiso (17) and Sihle (11) Pamana, with two years’ experience, took second place in the U17 championship category.
Brother and sister duo
Princess Talafala (10), with only six months’ experience, earned third place in the juvenile solo championship category.
“Achieving national colours means these dancers are recognised and trusted to represent South Africa in overseas championships for 2026,” states Thulo, praising their rapid development and dedication.
Manager Mathe-Thulo acknowledges the financial commitment required from parents.
“Dancing is expensive. Parents can pay from R900 to R3 000 per costume per person, and they use multiple costumes annually,” she explains.
Competition costs, including registration, transport, and accommodation, require thousands of rands, particularly for coastal province events.
The club welcomes new members and supporters. For more information or to assist the dancers, dial 073 622 2385 or visit the club at 1158 Matsitsa Street, Kutlwanong.
