Early Christmas gift for Mitchell's Plain Kickboxing Club following devastating fire

Three months ago, the Plainsman ran the story of the devastation at Mitchell's Plain Kickboxing Club, the gym and all its gear destroyed in a suspected arson fire, which struck a harsh blow to its fighters.

At the time, the club had members who were preparing for the SA kickboxing championships. Six of their members would go on to be crowned national champs and book their ticket to the world championships taking place in April 2026.

Head instructor Jeremy Peterson earlier said that story had touched a lot of good samaritans who wanted to lend a helping hand and help the club get back on its feet.

On Wednesday,  they received a generous donation of R50 000 towards rebuilding the club. The donation came from the office of Cape Town Executive Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis with the ceremonial cheque presented to Petersen by Marvin Sampson, at the Methodist Church in Park Avenue, Westridge, where training sessions are held.

The funds will go toward replacing training equipment, securing a safer training space and helping the club’s youngest athletes keep training uninterrupted.

It couldn’t come at a better time as the club is already looking ahead at world kickboxing championships.

For the youth who call Mitchell’s Plain Kickboxing their home, the message is clear, not even the fire can destroy their spirits.

"Every little bit helps," said Petersen, expressing his heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported them in their time of need. "We are truly grateful," he said.