Karateka get comfortable on international podium
The team boasted two generations of karateka competing in the international championship.
Seven athletes from the Goju Karate Academy made their bow on the international circuit during this year’s WUFK World Karate Championships in Scotland.
With their belts meticulously tied around their waists the karateka stepped onto the mats in Dundee, competing alongside 1 826 competitors, from 31 countries representing 63 karate federations.
Following months of intensive training, the local athletes held their own, bringing home 10 medals and contributing to the Goshukan Karate South Africa federation, placing 22nd overall.
The team competed in various disciplines including traditional kata and kumite as well as kobudo.
“This was an extremely tough championship. However, our athletes proved that they can compete against elite competitors from across the globe,” said sensei Tarryn Madgwick, fourth dan instructor.
The clubs’ fifth dan instructor, sensei Marius Madgwick and Gareth Hird were two of the stand-out performers during the three-day tournament, with each winning three medals.
Making his 17th appearance at an international championship, Madgwick won gold for both kobudo long as well as short weapons and went on to finish third for veterans kata.
Hird also ranked first in his division for kobudo long and short weapons and claimed silver for kata.
Despite being the club’s youngest competitor, Cayden Blackshaw (8), made two appearances on the podium claiming silver for kobudo short weapons and bronze for long weapons.
Having inherited her parents’ grit and determination, Riley Madgewick (11) finished second in her division for kobudo long weapons and won bronze for kumite.
“We are proud of all of our athletes, their overall performance and discipline leading up to the tournament,” said Madgwick.
“Being able to participate at an international level is a huge honour, no matter the outcome. I believe that each of these karateka is richer given the experience.”
Trading their customary white gi’s for blazers and ties, sensei Tarryn and Yolandi Coertze could be seen flanking the mats as they undertook judging duties at this year’s event.
Both were awarded WUKF international judging qualifications.
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