Konoha storms Vanderbijlpark to secure 41 medals at Jungle Wars XIII Nationals
Konoha Martial Arts dominated the RCFA Jungle Wars XIII Nationals in Vanderbijlpark, winning 41 medals and earning 314 provincial points from just nine competitors. Their strong performance across six divisions, including the demanding Supreme Fighting Arts, boosted the Northern Cape’s total to 854 points and brings several athletes closer to joining the SA Protea team for the 2026 RCFA Worlds. Back left: Estienne Scholtz: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze; Sabata Lempe: 4 Silver, 1 Bronze; Kyle Barendse: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze; Harmony Evans: 2 Gold, 3 Silver; SJ Everts: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze. Front left: Dewald van Huyssteen: 3 Silver 1 Bronze; Dihan van Huyssteen: 3 Silver 1 Bronze; Rolandi Ellis: 2 Silver; Molemo Lempe: 4 Silver, 3 Bronze SA Development. Not on photo Riekert Cilliers - Bronze
Image: Supplied / Rainer Jacobs
Konoha Martial Arts left an undeniable mark at the RCFA Nationals Jungle Wars XIII SA Open, held in Vanderbijlpark from October 24 to 26.
Despite fielding just nine competitors, the team delivered a fierce, powerhouse performance, amassing an incredible 41 medals and 314 provincial points, significantly bolstering the Northern Cape’s impressive total of 854 points.
Their outstanding performance has brought these dedicated athletes one step closer to national glory, with many now eyeing a place on the SA Protea team set to compete at the RCFA World Championships in April 2026.
The tournament saw competitors take on six gruelling divisions: High Kick Contact, Low Kick Contact, Sport Boxing, Close Combat (MMA/Grappling), Supreme Fighting Arts, and Combat Weapons.
Among these, Supreme Fighting Arts stood out as one of the most challenging categories, demanding mastery across multiple fighting disciplines. Konoha’s athletes demonstrated not only raw talent but also composure, technique, and endurance – traits that have become synonymous with the club’s ethos of excellence.
Coach Rainer Jacobs commended his team’s extraordinary effort and commitment, saying: “Konoha came to prove a point: skill, discipline, and heart win battles. Every competitor gave it everything, and the results speak for themselves.”
The team’s stellar showing in Vanderbijlpark underscored their readiness for the next stage of competition while also reinforcing the Northern Cape’s growing presence in the national martial arts arena.
Congratulations to the entire Konoha Martial Arts team for their outstanding performance, unwavering dedication, and for flying the Northern Cape flag high at the Jungle Wars XIII Nationals.