DURBAN North resident and Protea karateka, Jared Atkinson, ended his 2018 on a high, winning a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Cup, which was part of the ninth Commonwealth Karate Championships held in Durban recently.
The Crawford College La Lucia learner was competing in the U13 Kumite division of the tournament and said his focus for the champs was to medal.
“After winning initially it didn’t feel like it was proper achievement because the competition was in Durban, but after reflecting on it I’m realising what a great achievement it was. Before the tournament I was training hard and I was focused on making my country proud. What was nice in this competition was hearing my mom and dad shout from the crowd, they definitely gave me all the encouragement I needed on the day,” he said.
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“The calibre of the competition was quite high at the tournament. I thought the athletes from India were especially impressive. That said, it was a great marker for me as to where I stand internationally and I’m really excited about what’s to come this year with the possibility of travelling to the Czech Republic for an international competition,” he said.
Atkinson also paid tribute to his family and especially his father, Kevin, who has been his support structure.
“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.
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