UIPM U17 World Championships sees standout performances from local and international pentathlon athletes across fencing, swimming, laser run, and more.
Johannesburg, South Africa (30 July 2025) – Ever look at modern pentathlon athletes and wonder how on earth someone can juggle fencing, swimming, shooting, running and an obstacle course? Well, that is the kind of multitasking that took place at the Reddam House Helderfontein. The place came alive with action and excitement from 17 to 20 July as it hosted the 2025 UIPM U17 Modern Pentathlon World Championships.
More than 80 young athletes from 21 countries brought their A-game to Joburg, competing fiercely across four high-energy events: fencing, obstacle course, swimming, and the ever-thrilling laser run.
South Africa’s young stars gave home fans plenty to cheer about. The girls’ team delivered a standout performance, with Tatiana Thomatos scooping an individual bronze medal. Teaming up with Megan Kleynhans and Duné Haasbroek, the trio went on to secure a well-deserved team silver.
The South African boys’ team showed determination in the face of tough competition. Although individual contender Daniël Grové was sidelined by injury during the fencing event, his teammates dug deep and pressed on. Their efforts landed them a respectable sixth place in the team standings.
The competition was packed with record-breaking feats and world-class performances. Hungary’s Nemere Szecsi stole the show in the boys’ final, claiming gold with a new world record of 1,508 points. He was followed by Turkey’s Arda Meric (silver) and Egypt’s Momen Abdelmgeed (bronze). Hungary also topped the boys’ team podium, ahead of Germany and Egypt.
In the girls’ final, Egypt’s Farida Khalil, affectionately known as “the storm girl” blazed her way to gold. Italy’s Annachiara Allara took silver, while South Africa’s Thomatos added her name to the podium with bronze. In the team standings, Egypt led the way, followed by South Africa and Hungary.
Competing in multiple codes all at once is not an easy task, but they made it look easy. This tested every ounce of strength and endurance. Athletes racked up points across four dynamic events: fencing, an obstacle course, a 200m freestyle swim, and the nail-biting laser run. Combining sharp shooting with 4 laps of 600m each.
Now the focus shifts to the coastal town of Mossel Bay, which will host the UIPM Biathle, Triathle & Laser Run World Championships in December. South Africa is ready once again to welcome the world to its shores for another exhilarating celebration of multisport talent.
Sources: Supplied
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