Alberton resident makes short work of challenges

ONE of Alberton’s well-known residents has proved that you are never too old or challenged to do just about anything when you put your mind to it.

Kobus Beytell (67) has been a familiar face in Alberton for many years, especially next to the sports field, being involved in first aid at sporting events like rugby, athletics, wrestling and boxing. A few years ago Kobus started having problems with his health and had to have one leg amputated just below the knee and later, half of his other foot as well.

This hampered his participation in providing first aid at sports events.

His grandsons, however, started training at JKA Karate and, after receiving their national colours, convinced him to try karate. Kobus took on the challenge at an age that many may consider to be entirely too old – and despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacle of his lost limb. However, the determined karateka recently took part in the regional club championships and walked away with two gold medals and a trophy.

Kobus, a white belt, came up against a black belt much younger than himself and with both his legs to move around on; in spite of all this, the judges, upon taking his circumstances into consideration, awarded him medals and a trophy for the best upcoming and most determined karateka.

Kobus will now be setting his sights on the provincial championships that will be held later in March.

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