The Dragon Warrior Karate Academy chief instructor, sensei Steve Ormandy, said that one of his proudest moments this year was watching his students “make a huge impression” at the SA Ryukyu Martial Arts Federation (SARMAF) all-styles national championships, held in Sasolburg during June.
Ormandy’s 12 students were in the competition as part of the Tenshinkan Karate Gauteng provincial team.
They were in superb form after returning home with a total of 23 medals, among themselves, out of a possible 25. They raked in 15 gold, six silver and two bronze medals.
The sensei expressed his happiness, saying the karateka were amazing.
“You all made a huge impression at these championships. Your standard of competitiveness – your katas, kumite and weapons – were top class. The results show this and speak loudly for themselves,” he said.
The yondan stated he was extremely proud of senpai Caitlin Eaton who was declared national champion in kata, kumite and weapons after winning gold medals in all three categories.
He reserved special praise for all his students who were granted national champion status after winning gold medals in their respective categories.
“We have 15 SA all-styles karate champions, either in kata, kumite and weapons or in all three categories. That was absolutely magnificent. You have made so proud.
“The national champs’ results and performances were absolutely awesome. Thank you to all my Dragon karate students, both in Benoni and La Como,” he said.
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