Westville siblings kick their way to top

AFTER seven years of blood, sweat and many tears, Westville brothers, Nakhil (16) and Suvarn Govender (15) have achieved their first Dan Black Belt in karate.

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Over the years, the Westville Boys’ learners have participated in eThekwini regional competitions, KZN Karate Championships, League Championships and national championships.

The have also travelled throughout the country in order to participate in every tournament and have never missed out on a single tournament.

Their mother, Lerissa Govender said Nakhil started karate at the age of nine.

“As his mum, I felt karate would make him feel confident and be able to protect himself. Though initially, Nakhil was very hesitant to go for karate, he eventually grew to love the sport.”

The boys said getting their first Dan Black Belt in karate was the most phenomenal feeling.

“Even though in lockdown, we persevered with online lessons and slowly moved onto the actual class lessons once lockdown restrictions eased.

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Nakhil is currently ranked second in the country in his age and weight division for Kumite. He has achieved Protea colours three times thus far and has travelled to Botswana and Namibia to participate in the AUSC Region 5 Championship.

“He obtained bronze medals at both Botswana and Namibia. He also gained Protea status when he participated in the Commonwealth Championship. He continues to strive to do his best and is very passionate about karate,” said the proud mother.

Nakhil’s brother, Suvarn started karate at the age of eight.

Lerissa said she felt that Survan had too much of energy and needed to focus on a sport to express himself.

Suvarn is currently ranked 7th in the country in his age and weight division in Kumite.

“He has excelled ever since he started karate and at the young age of 11, he was chosen to represent his country and participated in Jakarta, Indonesia. Here he achieved a bronze medal for Kumite. It was an exceptional achievement and a very proud moment.

Nakhil and Suvarn are part of the SKISA organisation and have been training at the Westville Civic Centre under the mentorship of Protea Coach, Brando Pillay.

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting

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