SUNNINGDALE resident and Protea karateka, Jared Atkinson, has one thing on his mind for the upcoming ninth Commonwealth Karate Championships, winning gold.
The Grade 7 Virginia Preparatory School learner will be competing in the Commonwealth Cup, which falls under the same competition come Thursday, 29 November.
He will be competing in the U13 Kumite division of the tournament.
“I’m really excited. Earlier this year receiving my South African Protea colours from the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) for karate, was a special moment for me. I’ve set myself the goal of winning gold and I feel mentally and physically prepared for what’s to come.
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“My sensei, Brando Pillay Shihan and his father, KSA President, Hanshi Sonny Pillay have been amazing throughout my fledgling karate career. They’ve backed me all the way and it has definitely helped me become better at the sport,” he said.
Atkinson has already won a bronze medal at this year’s AUSC Region 5 U20 Youth Games in Botswana, which has given him a boost of confidence.
The 12-year-old first dan black belt and nationally ranked athlete, also paid tribute to his family and especially his dad, Kevin, who has been his support strucutre.
“If my dad or my family weren’t behind me as they are, I wouldn’t be where I am today. They’ve made a massive difference to who I’m today,” he said.
The Commonwealth Karate Championships, begins on Thursday, 29 November and runs until Sunday, 2 December at The Olive Convention Centre Ice Arena in Durban.
