Novice karatekas converged on Katlehong for the AFCKO Novice Tournament, held at Abram Hlophe Primary School, last Saturday.
The tournament saw participants from, among other places, Vosloorus, Sebokeng, Tembisa, Alberton and Daveyton.
Shorin-Kempo Kaikan Karate Club hosted the tournament.
“It was a great tournament, with over 180 participants competing,” said Shorin-Kempo Kaikan Karate Club’s head coach, Thulane Sibisi.
“Senior instructors, shihan German Visser and shihan Collen Sedoaba, graced us with their presence.
“In the spirit and celebration of Heritage Day, parents attended the tournament in their different traditional attire.”
The tournament commenced with the kata category.
The competition was high, as competitors were given enough time to prepare for the event.
“The audience was particularly looking forward to the girls’ blue and yellow belt category, because most of the karatekas in this category have more experience,” added Sibisi.
“Thabo Mokganedi, from the Abram Hlophe Dojo, impressed the judges with his fast turns and proper execution of his techniques in the white and orange belt category.
“Palesa Mokoena, from Vaal University of Technology, showed that the standard of the university is high when it comes to kata.
“This was one of the best ever AFCKO developmental programmes in the township, even if I have to say so myself.
”I thank sensei Sasa Sithole, because we worked well and did a great job together.”
The tournament, organised by the African Full Contact Organisation, was a great opportunity for youngsters to showcase their talents.
Results of the tournament are:
White and orange belt category:
- First: Thabo Mokganedi (white belt) from Abram Hlophe Dojo.
- Second: Badimo Kazadi (orange belt) from Vaal Dojo.
- Third: Boipelo Mokoena (orange belt) from Abram Hlophe Dojo.
- Fourth: Sibusiso Tshabalala (white belt) from Mpontsheng Dojo.
Girls’ blue and yellow belt category:
- First: Palesa Mokoena (yellow belt) from Vaal University of Technology Dojo.
- Second: Tsheamo Maphopha (yellow belt) from Mpontsheng Dojo.
- Third: Siyasanga Mooi (blue belt) from Vaal University of Technology.
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