Latest news with #BryanstonSportsClub
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Young judoka pushes through injury to make a podium finish at Region 5 Youth Games
For most teenagers, winning a gold medal would be the highlight of their lives, but for 16-year-old Maxx Mackenzie, it was just the beginning. Fresh off his victory at the Africa Cup in Pretoria, the rising judo talent powered through pain and pressure to earn a hard-fought bronze medal at the Region 5 Youth Games, representing South Africa with remarkable resilience. The games brought together nearly 200 athletes from 10 southern African countries, including Botswana, Zambia, Angola, and host nation Namibia. Competing in the U20 division, Maxx was one of the youngest judokas on the mat, facing opponents up to four years his senior. 'Being only 16 and fighting in the U20 category was definitely my biggest challenge, but I was ready. I upped my training, added more cardio, boxing, and weight sessions. Sensei Basil arranged extra judo sessions to make sure I was mentally and physically prepared.' Also read: Bryanston Sports Club pits their best potjies forward Maxx trains at the Tatami Judo Academy under the mentorship of Sensei Basil Smith, who he credits for instilling values like perseverance, respect, and sportsmanship. His weekly routine includes evening dojo training and early-morning workouts, balanced with his love for swimming and rugby, but it was the bronze medal bout that would test, not just Maxx's skill, but his stamina and willpower as well. 'I got my opponent into a choke hold, and then an arm lock, but he just wouldn't give up,' said Maxx. 'I was two points ahead when I felt something tear in my knee. I had to hold my balance for the last 10 seconds. It was all or nothing. When the final whistle blew, and I heard people shouting my name, it was an incredible moment.' The win came at a cost. Maxx later learned he had torn a ligament in his knee, forcing him to withdraw from the upcoming African Championships in Angola. While the news was disappointing, he remains undeterred. 'It was tough hearing I needed surgery, but I'm staying positive and focusing on recovery. I'll be supporting Team South Africa all the way and working hard to return stronger next year.' Also read: Redhill's golden goalkeeper leads team to historic Aitken Cup promotion Maxx's long-term goals include qualifying for future African Championships and one day competing in the Olympics, a dream he approaches with steady focus and gratitude. When asked what advice he has for younger athletes, he repeated a mantra from his coach. 'Believe in yourself and have fun while doing it. And as Sensei Basil always says: 'Trust the process. '' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
The Citizen
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
A cricketer at heart turns into bowls prodigy
Riccardo Scarola (12) is a passionate cricket player who recently expanded his sporting horizons by trying bowls, and the gamble paid off. His dedication and talent in the sport earned him a bronze medal at the Gauteng Open U15 Bowls Tournament held at Wingate in Pretoria on June 28 to 29. Riccardo shared his excitement about the achievement. 'Very chuffed on getting a medal again, following my silver medal from last year, so I'm hoping for gold in 2026.' Also read: Potjie cookout at Bryanston Sports Club Riccardo said his journey into bowls started unexpectedly. 'We used to frequent Morningside Country Club for cricket practice at the nets, and my Dad and I thought to give bowls a go one day. We enjoyed it very much.' Since then, Riccardo has embraced the sport, finding new joy and camaraderie in every game. A memorable highlight was winning his section and performing well in the semi-finals at Wingate. 'Winning my section and having a good game in the semi-final was the biggest highlight of the tournament. And I would like to thank Wingate Bowls for being so welcoming to us all.' Also read: Proteas men shine as South Africa celebrates ICC World Test Championship victory Playing alongside cricket legend Gerry Baker, whom Riccardo admires greatly, was also a special moment. 'I was a little sick for a week before, so my preparation wasn't the best, but I rolled a few times and had an internal pairs match with Gerry Baker, which was awesome to play with,' he said. 'Gerry Baker has been the most influential to me in bowls. Listening and learning from him at Morningside is great to have,' Riccardo added. Riccardo said he didn't encounter any challenges because he loves to be challenged. Also read: Glamorous evening honours Lions Cricket's best and brightest 'I play a lot of cricket, and that's my main sport. I'm only 12, so perhaps being one of the youngest makes it a little difficult, but I love the challenge and try to play bowls and not the man or girl.' Looking ahead, Riccardo's focus remains on enjoying the game and improving his skills rather than chasing immediate titles. 'My cricket comes first, and then bowls. I don't have any big ambitions, just enjoying and playing my best. I'd like to do well in the open men's category starting on July 12.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
