Luchay
Photo Credit: NMU via Facebook

With various provincial, national and international accolades to their names, golfer JP van der Watt and Kareteka Luchay Weideman have not only excelled in their respective sporting codes but have also left an indelible mark on Nelson Mandela University’s sporting legacy.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (28 October 2024) – A golfer’s triumphs and a Karateka’s rise were recently awarded for their exceptional skills and achievements in their respective disciplines.

Golfer JP van der Watt and Karateka Luchay Weideman were named Nelson Mandela University’s top athletes at the annual Madibaz Sports Awards held recently, acknowledging the duo’s exceptional performances on both national and international stages, solidifying their status as sporting icons.

Reacting to receiving the University’s ultimate sporting prize, JP said he did not expect the award, saying that for him, it came out of the blue.

“I’m really ecstatic about being recognised; it is the pinnacle of my varsity career.

“I feel blessed with the team who have been involved with my journey, so a big thanks to them. I guess the hard work starts now.”

Equally as overwhelmed by the recognition of her sporting achievements, Luchay expressed that she was grateful for the chances she had received.

“I’m shocked at receiving the award and perhaps it does show that hard work pays off,” she said.

“It has been wonderful for me to represent Madibaz in various competitions and I’d like to thank everyone for the opportunities I have had,” she said.

According to NMU, JP is the reigning University Sports South Africa strokeplay champion after a remarkable finish to the tournament at Belmont Golf Club in Makhanda in December last year.

Sportsman of the Year
Golfer and BCom graduate JP van der Watt receives his trophy from acting dean of students Vuyo Bongela after being named Sportsman of the Year at the Madibaz Sports Awards last week. Photo: Michael Sheehan

He has represented the country at numerous world-class competitions as well as claimed domestic titles at the Cape Province Open in George and KwaZulu-Natal Amateur.

His fine form also saw him selected for the national student side, which competed at the FISU Games in Finland this August.

Luchay is a formidable force in the world of karate. Her dominant performance at the USSAs in June and numerous gold medals in provincial and national tournaments highlight her exceptional abilities.

The hard-hitting student added nine more golds and two silvers from two national tournaments to her 2024 tally.

Both athletes have brought immense pride to Nelson Mandela University, inspiring future generations of sports enthusiasts.


Sources: Nelson Mandela University
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