It was promised that this year’s Cape Classic would exceed last year’s event, and the NMA made good on its word.

The crowds started gathering at the Kraaifontein Civic Centre from 15:00 in the afternoon of Friday 20 May 2011, well in advance of the 18:00 start. They comprised all sorts. There were the seasoned competitors hoping to test their abilities, and maybe even win their divisions. There were also the beginners who were about to experience their first taste of competition. And let us not forgive the parents and loved ones who came to offer their vocal support.

Friday night saw all the Jiu-Jitsu divisions, the High-Kick Challenges, the Junior Breaking divisions, Forms and Katas, and the Sport Full Contact. The Tag Team divisions and the Black Belt Open Championships were also held on that day. Thanks to the layout of the event, clashes were largely eliminated and when they did occur they were handled with impressive efficiency. Saturday saw all the Points and Light Continuous divisions as well as the Senior Breaking, MMA Light and Sport MMA. Once again, clashes between divisions were restricted to a minimum.

Both days proved entertaining to the spectators. They were to witness first-hand how competitors could leap up to 2.8 metres into the air during the High Kick Challenge. They witnessed how young and old were able to grapple opponents to the ground and successfully attempt a submission. They witnessed the ironclad resolve of Sport Full Contact competitors who refused to yield to their fatigue. They witnessed the sort of synergy that the best tag teams are capable of. They saw breakers, old and new, push past pain and psychological barriers to roof tiles in numbers they previously thought impossible. They were shown the tactical side to MMA, that it is much more that who can strike the hardest.

In short, they were not disappointed.

To all 330 competitors, thank you for your participation. To all spectators, thank you for your patronage. Thank you all for making the 2011 Cape Classic a resounding success.