Kickboxing sensation, Taylor Urquhart (21), has brought pride to Jeffreys Bay after earning the prestigious honour of representing South Africa at the upcoming Kickboxing World Championships in Dubai from November 21 to 30.
Despite this amazing achievement, the talented fighter now faces her toughest challenge outside the ring, raising R70 000 to cover essential travel costs, accommodation, and championship participation fees.
Urquhart, a member of Botha’s Kickboxing Club, has been passionate about the sport since she was six years old.
She has earned provincial colours and become a national champion in three divisions.
These divisions include the Senior Women’s u/55kg category in Semi Contact, Light Continuous, and Kick Light, where she was placed first in all three at the SAKA Nationals in Newcastle earlier this year.
Shihan Louwrens Botha, head of Botha’s Kickboxing and leader of the Eastern Cape Provincial Kickboxing Association, has emphasised the importance of kickboxers registering with the South African Kickboxing Association (SAKA), the only association recognised by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO), which is affiliated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Urquhart, who is a coach at Botha’s Kickboxing Club, said that she does not participate in kickboxing for herself alone, but to assist other young fighters find the same strength and purpose she found in the sport.
“Kickboxing has taught me discipline, resilience, and confidence — things I try to pass on to every athlete I train,” said Urquhart.
Rika van Jaarsveld, Botha’s Kickboxing team manager, said that she believes in Urquhart’s potential.
“Taylor’s determination and passion are truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that she will make a lasting impact on the international stage,” said Jaarsveld.
Urquhart is seeking sponsorships to make her dream a reality.
She said that she would appreciate any amount of sponsorship, big or small.
“This is a dream I have held for 15 years, and those who are able to assist will be helping me achieve this dream. More importantly, you’ll be showing a young South African athlete that she’s not alone in this journey,” said Urquhart.
She said that with the help of financial assistance, she aims to make her mark on the international kickboxing stage and inspire young athletes in South Africa.
For more information or to contribute, visit Taylor Urquhart’s BackaBuddy campaign titled, “Get Taylor to Dubai”, or contact Shihan Louwrens Botha at 072 357 5090.
