3 Plett brothers going for gold

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Excelling in sport definitely runs in Plettenberg Bay’s Venter family as three brothers managed exceptional results in various disciplines over the past weekend.

Marius Venter (17) kicked off the successful weekend by winning the 160km FEI International Endurance Race in Bredasdorp on Friday 28 September. He didn’t stop there and the next day, again on horse Joni Shamahl, won the 80km junior championship as well.

This achievement made it a hat-trick for the Wittedrift High School learner who previously also won the 120km event.

Next was middle brother Stefan’s turn to shine. The 13-year-old, who also attends Wittedrift High School, managed to rake in two gold medals at the SA Mixed Martial Arts Championships in Cape Town. He secured these victories in the points and continuous-fighting categories in the boys' 12 to 13 division.

This achievement secured him SWD and SA colours in the sport. It also ensured an invitation to the World Championships in Miami in the US next year where he will represent South Africa.

Youngest brother Wian (10) also made his mark at the SA Mixed Martial Arts Championships over the weekend.

The Wittedrift Primary School learner won a bronze medal in the continuous-fighting category for boys aged 9 and 10, and also managed to obtain his SWD and SA colours at the event. Like his older brother, he too will be representing South Africa at the World Championships next year.

Brothers Wian (left) and Stefan Venter cleaned up at the SA Mixed Martial Arts Championships in Cape Town. Photo: Supplied

Father of the three youngsters, Marius Venter, says words cannot describe the pride he felt seeing his young sons excel over the weekend.

“It is such a wonderful blessing to see all three your sons do so well in their respective sports. To say that I’m a proud father is an understatement.”

Wian Venter (10) won a bronze medal at the SA Mixed Martial Arts Championships in Cape Town. Photo: Supplied