Benoni dojos bring home two gold medals from Japan
The Dan Triangle Benoni dojo is back from a trip to Japan where they took part in the Karatenomichi World Federation (KWF) tournament.
Dan Triangle’s gold medalists are Christopher Thela and Christopher Anthony.
The KWF tournament takes place every two years and the style of the competition is traditional Budo karate.
Thela came home with the Veteran Male A Kumite first place medal and Anthony came home with the Senior Male Kumite first place win.
Anthony’s event is known as the premier event and is one of the most important events of the tournament.
His event was judged by some of the best Japanese instructors, including Mikio Yahara, chief instructor of KWF, and this is the second time he has come first place.
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Antony’s father, sensei Chris Anthony, said: “I am very proud of my son.”
“My dojos are my family too, so I am very proud of my family,” he said.
The tournament is a very difficult one to compete in because if you lose a fight, you’re out, Chris explained.
Only the best of the best from each country are selected and allowed to compete.
Participants this year also hailed from India, Russia and USA.
In each division, there were about 70 participants and the tournament kicked off with a one-day seminar, led by Mikio Yahara.
“It was a fantastic experience to have sensei Yahara training us and teaching us new and different techniques.
“To be mentored and taught by him is something I will never forget,” said Thela.
This tournament was Thela’s first, and he said the experience made him a better fighter.
Anthony took part for the second time, training six days a week, two hours a day.
“I wanted to be ready and I really feel like I was,“ he said.
When asked what their favourite experiences were in Japan, they agreed that the seminar and team spirit stood out for them.
“The seminar was a life experience. To have someone like Mikion Yahara leading the seminar and giving advice was great,“ said Thela.
“Team spirit for me was the best part.
“You are on the flight with all of your friends, and they are like your family so I really enjoyed experiencing the spirit of friendship.” said Anthony.
When asked how they felt about their last fight, Thela said: “Your mind is very busy, it’s all over the place, but the voices of the people you know, cheering you on, saying you’ve got this relaxes you a bit, because as you walk onto that mat, you are tense and have butterflies in your tummy.”
“Mine was a little different. I was placed to fight against one of my friends who I used to train with, so both of us knew each others’ fighting techniques and styles,” Anthony said.
“We both gave each other a good go, bringing the score to one each, but I managed to close the deal and win the fight with one final kick to the head, which gave me the two points I needed to win.
“The best thing about karate is that even after that, my friend and I laughed and were fine with each other.”
Japan was an incredible experience, Thela and Anthony said.
“The streets were unbelievably clean, no dustbins in sight but yet no litter on the streets!” said Anthony who also took a walk in one of the parks to clear his head.
“In South Africa, you know it isn’t safe to walk in the park or anywhere at that time of night, but in Japan it’s a normal thing to do and very safe.”
Both have a strong love and respect for karate.
“You need to be smart. You can’t fear your opponent, even if he is a big guy, you have to be smart and clean,” said Thela.
“Karate isn’t just a sport, it is for fitness. It helps with your mental well-being and is important for self-defence too,” said Anthony.
