On a night filled with celebration and recognition, golfer JP van der Watt and karateka Luchay Weideman were named Mandela University’s Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year at the prestigious Madibaz Sport Awards. Both athletes have racked up a series of impressive achievements, making their mark both nationally and internationally.
Luchay Weideman’s Karate and Rugby Success
Luchay Weideman, a rising star in karate and a BSc student, expressed her gratitude for the accolade. “I’m shocked at receiving the award and perhaps it does show that hard work pays off,” she said. Competing in semi-contact karate, Weideman has had an outstanding year. In June, she bagged four golds at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) championships and added seven golds and two silvers from provincial tournaments. Her winning streak continued with another nine gold medals from national events.
But Weideman’s talents extend beyond karate. She also represented the Madibaz rugby team in league games and at the USSAs, which earned her a place in the Eastern Province (EP) squad. With these achievements, Weideman is fast becoming a formidable name in both sports.
JP van der Watt’s Golfing Triumphs
Golfer JP van der Watt, the reigning University Sports South Africa (USSA) strokeplay champion, has had a stellar year. His journey to the top began with a dramatic win at the Belmont Golf Club in December, where he claimed the title after a nail-biting playoff. The BCom graduate continued his fine form, winning two domestic titles—the Cape Province Open and KwaZulu-Natal Amateur—and finishing runner-up at the SA Amateur Strokeplay Championship.
Van der Watt’s impressive season also saw him competing internationally, representing South Africa at the African Region Five tournament in Zambia, the Indian Ocean Open in Mauritius, and the FISU Games in Finland. His outstanding contributions on the golf course earned him the Sportsman of the Year award.
Madibaz’s Sporting Success
The Madibaz Sport Awards didn’t just focus on individual success. The Madibaz Netball Club took home the prestigious Club of the Year title, while several other awards acknowledged the hard work and dedication of sport administrators, coaches, and teams that contribute to the university’s sporting excellence.
From golf and karate to athletics and netball, Mandela University’s sporting future looks bright, thanks to the commitment of its athletes, coaches, and staff.
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