16-06-2025
Top athletes compete at Wushu championships
The Gauteng Provincial Wushu Federation (GPWF) recently hosted its much-anticipated Open Championships. The event showcased the province's top talent in Chinese martial arts as it featured athletes of all ages and levels competing in Traditional and International Compulsory Taolu forms, as well as Sanda (Full Contact Fighting) bouts.
Excitement and energy filled the venue as soon as the gates were open and the first Taolu routines kicked off. The athletes competing in this category performed their forms barehanded, while others used weaponry items, as both these categories were featured at the championships. Later in the afternoon, the exhilarating Sanda bouts stole the spectators' attention as they ended the afternoon on a high note.
Also read: Wushu action rocks Poortview
A panel of qualified provincial judges oversaw proceedings, ensuring professionalism across every category and according to the GPWF secretary-general, Riana van Coller, the federation was happy with the turnout and energy on the day.
'There was a constant flow of excitement from athletes, coaches, and supporters alike. It was especially special to be joined by a delegation from the Chinese Embassy,' Riana expresses.
Now in its second year as an independently hosted provincial event, this championship marked a significant milestone for the federation and organisers.
'What began as a bold step forward last year has now become a benchmark of what's possible when vision meets determination,' Riana shares. The event received positive feedback from participants and parents, as people praised the event for being well-rounded and giving athletes a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills.
Beyond medals and trophies, the championship plays a strategic role in athlete development, and it serves as a selection platform for the Gauteng Provincial Squad.
Only selected athletes who are South African citizens and GPWF members are eligible to represent the province at the South African Wushu Federation National Open Wushu Championships set to take place in September.
Looking ahead, the federation plans to continue strengthening Wushu through workshops and further championships. The next provincial event is in the pipeline for early next year.
For more information about the GPWF and future events, contact Riana at or 082 445 4657.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
