There’s no stopping Tshepang
Tshepang Phadime’s instructor and trainer, Bheki Radebe, said he did not support him competing because of an injury.
Duduza – Tshepang Phadime (15) came out tops in the 12th Matlosana Karate Tournament in the North West over the weekend.
The Esibonelo Esihle Secondary School learner brought home gold despite attending the tournament without any of his team members and coach. His fighting spirit saw him dominate his opponents and finish first in the under 50kg category.
He placed second on Sunday when he fought outside his weight category in an open division. As the cherry on top, he won an award for being the best fighter with exceptional skills at the tournament.
Phadime says his journey leading to this contest in Northwest was hard, and he almost gave up because he did not have money for transport, accommodation, and participation, but only the will to go and compete driven by his desire to represent Duduza, especially his school.
He also wanted to cement his legacy, considering that even last year, he dominated at this tournament, compelling everyone, even the organisers, to notice him.
“I had to call anyone I know from neighbours and other karate instructors to ask for money to cover the costs for this trip. Fortunately, most people I spoke to were kind enough to contribute to my journey, and I was able to raise about R 1 000,” says Phadime.
Phadime’s instructor and trainer, Bheki Radebe, said he did not support him competing in this contest because he was still recovering from a previous tournament. But Phadime insisted he wanted to go.
“I told him that because of the standard of the competition in that tournament, he might make the injuries he accumulated from the IKOK Sonoda Tournament worse. I encouraged him to at least recover fully before engaging in any contests, but he begged me to let him go.
“As a result of his resilience, he represented us very well, and I’m proud of him as my student,” added Radebe.
Phadime’s principal, Simphiwe Dinsi, of Esibonelo Esihle Secondary School, is overwhelmed by his winning attitude, saying that even how he carries himself at school reflects the image of a champion.
“This boy is a great achievement of this school. He is a positive role model among his peers, and I must say the school is proud of him,” said Dinsi.
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