NOT one to be afraid of stepping outside of her comfort zone to tackle a new challenge is Westville’s Debbie Ivins.
She recently took part in the International Federation of Funakoshi Shotokan Karate South Africa’s 35th National Championships and claimed two silver medals.
“Every year I like to challenge myself with a new interest and this year was no different. I wanted to try something that empowered me, mentally and physically as well as learn some self-defense skills too,” she said.
Debbie joined the Westville Karate Club, under the leadership of Sensei Brian Govender and Sensei Mishelle Govender. “It was humbling to join a group where I was the oldest beginner, but the children embraced me and my fellow karateka have become like family,” said a beaming Debbie.
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Her high-kicking adventure began in January and she was only too keen to jump right into the thick of it as she attended a national training course in February and competed in a development tournament in March, where she placed second for kata.
“I was honoured to take part in this prestigious event,” said Debbie as she recalls her time at the national champs. “There were more than 500 karateka from across South Africa, as well as a team from Congo. I competed in both the kata and kumite and earned two silver medals.”
“I only started karate this year and even though various circumstances, including my return to running, require me to step back from karate and end this journey for now, it has taught me lessons I will take into the future. I am grateful to be a part of this family and treasure the relationships I have made, which will never end,” she said.
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