Loved ones of Fourways karateka raise funds for upcoming world karate championships

The family of Christos Prokas joined hands with Humble Harry’s restaurant in Lonehill to host a fundraising dinner for an upcoming karate tournament in Scotland.

March 28, 2023

Khomotso Makgabutlane 1 minute read

The Prokas family – Nikos, Christos and Kali – at Humble Harry’s restaurant in Lonehill. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Community members, family and friends of a young karate athlete raised funds for his upcoming overseas tournament.

Christos Prokas with his Crawford International Lonehill Preparatory School teachers, Zipho Meyiwa and Kendal Kent. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Christos Prokas (11) thanked attendees for their support at the Humble Harry’s restaurant in Lonehill. He is one of nine heading to the World Union of Karate-Do Federations World Karate Championships in Dundee, Scotland in July.
The Crawford International Lonehill Preparatory School learner started karate at the age of four. “I started karate because I was bullied and teased about my ears. My parents decided to let me try karate so I can defend myself,” he said.

Shivaan and Aheesh Singh with Heike ‘C-4’ Herselman and Jenna Anthony get drinks before the next rounds of boxing at Lock, Stock and Beer in Lonehill. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

“Karate became my passion, and it has given me so much confidence and self-discipline. I’ve been doing karate for eight years, and I finally get to live the dream of going to Scotland for the World Champs.”

Crawford International Lonehill Preparatory School teacher Ciara Phillips with her learner, Christos Prokas. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Sensei Mari du Preez from the Kyalami Karate Dojo, affiliated with Shotokan-ZA, described Christos at the dinner. “He has a fantastic sense of humour. He is kind and caring, he is brave and willing to trust. He is dedicated and determined. He’s competitive and disciplined. He’s grateful and optimistic. These are the characteristics of a champion.”

Christos Prokas is ready to represent South Africa at the karate championships in Scotland. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Du Preez will be travelling with the team to the world championships. She added that she is excited to have him on the squad heading to Scotland. “I’m super excited for this tournament. This is my sixth world champs and we have a brand new team. None of them competed internationally before, especially not on a world level.
“I will be extremely happy if the athletes can go to the semi-finals. It will mean they are ready. If we go for the next one, I know they will medal easily. But I don’t want to put pressure on the children. It’s about going there and getting the experience.”