The 2025 National Kickboxing Championships, hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Kickboxing Association, saw over 800 competitors from across South Africa gather at the Newcastle Farmers Hall for an intense display of skill and determination.
Leading the Eastern Cape contingent was Shihan Louwrens Botha, a resolute mentor and force behind the region’s rising stars.
Under his leadership, EC kickboxers delivered outstanding performances, proving their strength in the national arena.
Botha’s Kickboxing Club proudly saw three medallists, each demonstrating the power of hard work and perseverance.
In the senior men’s +94kg Semi-Contact division, Sensei Philip van Zyl secured a bronze medal, showing off impressive technique and resilience.
Meanwhile, Ruan Jordaan battled fiercely in the senior men’s -84kg Semi-Contact division, earning a silver medal after a gripping final against a world champion.
The ultimate highlight belonged to Senpai Taylor Urquhart, whose remarkable achievement stole the spotlight.
She became the first female fighter from Botha’s club to secure three gold medals in a single championship, dominating the Senior Women’s -55kg category in Semi-Contact, Light Continuous, and Kick Light.
Her journey was one of perseverance — she had earned a spot on the national team before the pandemic but was unable to compete due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Despite this setback, she kept pushing forward, moving from the North West to the Eastern Cape and training harder than ever before.
Today, she stands at the top of South African kickboxing.
Urquhart’s dedication extends beyond competition.
She actively coaches at Botha’s Kickboxing Club, inspiring others to embrace the sport.
Rika van Jaarsveld, club manager, said that kickboxing is more than just fighting.
“Kickboxing builds discipline, confidence, and resilience. A lot of fighters have used their skills to carve successful careers, from professional athletes to influential trainers and mentors,” said Van Jaarsveld.
For more information or to join Botha’s Kickboxing Club, contact Shihan Louwrens Botha at 072 357 5090.
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