Donations needed to fund karate trip

A PROMISING young karateka, Judah Smith, is appealing to the community to help raise funds for him to attend the International Karate Championships in the Far East next month.

Judah, (9), started karate two years ago, encouraged by his parents Katie and Paul. “Since he was very young, Judah wanted to do karate. The sport helps him with self-esteem and discipline. He has excelled in karate and we know this trip will be a great boost for him,” they said.

Judah has taken part in numerous events including the Broken Tile, grading for the next belt and he has competed in the Johannesburg tournament three times, placing second and third in events. On Friday, 23 November he had his grading and won The best Junior Sempei (teacher) for his great leadership skills and patience with his fellow competitors and for being able to teach other children.

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“Judah has been selected to represent South Africa in the International Karate Championships and the team is leaving in mid December, which doesn’t leave much time. We still have an amount of R30 000 to raise. We are trying our utmost best to raise the funds but it is a very hard task,” said Katie. She has been making and selling homemade chilli sauce and selling cappuccinos and has held a fundraising dance to raise funds for Judah’s trip.

The team is travelling to Singapore, Malaysia, Phuket and Bangkok, and the costs include tickets, accommodation, internal transport and his kits.

If anyone can help with donations towards making this dream trip come true, they can contact Katie on 083 231 8119.

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