Modderfontein’s Laylah-Blue excels at karate trials
Her next goal is getting her black belt and being a lot more fit.
Laylah-Blue Lipchick, a Modderfontein Academy learner, received gold and silver medals at the SA JKA Gauteng Trials.
She won her gold medal in the kata and silver medal in kumite at the March 15 and 16 karate tournament.
“I was nervous at the tournament, but I knew that I was well prepared as I have not skipped a lesson all year,” said Laylah-Blue.
As she got to the floor she prayed.
Laylah-Blue said she told herself to stay confident but humble, remember what to do and not pay attention to other competitors.
“At first when I started karate I wanted to learn more about self-defence. I started enjoying it and found that it calms me down,” said Laylah-Blue.
She kicked off her karate career in January 2018 and graduated to a yellow then orange belt in that year.
“We were all expected to graduate, but some learners were intimidated, so they didn’t qualify to graduate,” she said.
Coach Brad Korras helped Laylah-Blue train for four hours on some days.
Her father Gary Lipchick said his 14-year-old is very dedicated.
Her next goal is to get her black belt and improve her fitness.
Laylah-Blue said she wants to focus on getting stronger.
“I want to be the best me I can be. I want to get into free fighting and carry on with the sport for as long as I can.”
