Girls to take centre stage at kung fu clash

GIRLS will take centre stage at the second Western Cape Kung Fu tournament this weekend.

Organiser and Kung fu champion Muhammad MJ Li Chafeker said: “In line with the 16 days of activism we want to show the strength our girls possess.

“At the first tournament the girls never did contact but this time they will get to show what they can do.”

The competition will see 59 athletes, from four high schools and three primary schools across the Western Cape compete for a trophy.

They will compete in categories of form, weapons, full contact and group demos.

After the success of the first tournament, which was held in Mitchells Plain in August, 10 youngsters were selected to represent the country at the Hong Kong International Kung Fu Championships in March.

This time an additional eight will be selected to complete a squad of 18 that will be heading to Hong Kong.

“I hope the kids can use Kung Fu as a vehicle to strive towards just doing their best in every aspect of their lives,” said Chafeker.

“It teaches them discipline and motivation. Since they started training at the beginning of this year, the feedback from the parents and schools has been positive.

‘‘They are more focused and their grades have gone up.”

The South African Chinese Cultural Association has also arranged for a traditional Lion Dance team to be part of the event’s opening.

Chafeker appealed to the public to come out and support the event as he is now working towards raising the money needed to assist the children with the costs of the trip to China.

The tournament will also act as a fund-raiser towards the trip. Proceeds from Marc Lottering’s new show Auntie Merle the Musical will also go towards sponsoring the trip.

Tickets cost R160 and are available from Chafeker.

He can be contacted on 081 711 1211 or 082 454 3027.

They are more focused and their grades have gone up