Ladysmith KZN: Karate kids kick back into action in 2021
It is vital for the youth to learn self-defence and also self-discipline, and this is what karate does
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/63/2021/04/DSC_0935-Large-780x470.jpg)
The Budo Ryu Karate Club has been in existence for over 45 years, making it the oldest karate club in the region and one of the most successful ones as well.
Sensei Ashok Ramphal has been with the club since its inception in 1972 and has shared his valuable skills with thousands of students who have come under his tutelage.
According to Ashok, “It is vital for the youth to learn self-defence and also self-discipline, and this is what karate does.”
The Budo Ryu Karate Club keeps up with international standards and the sensei keeps up to date with the latest trends by holding regular workshops.
His students train twice a week – Mondays and Wednesdays – at the Civic Hall.
Tiasha Hansraj, who has been attending karate classes for the past four years, has been really enjoying her time at the dojo. Tiasha is a blue belt and says she will continue until she’s finally good enough to get her black belt.
Nirvash Sibran, who is always eager when it comes to sport, has been part of the karate classes for eight years now and is a brown belt with two stripes. He will be going for his black belt at the next grading.
Little Kairav Gurucharan (orange belt) and little Mahi Singh (white belt) are growing from strength to strength at the club, and also aim to get their black belts one day.