Seshego karatekas aim for honours at nationals

POLOKWANE – A group of top young karatekas from the Oyama School of Karate in Seshego is set to represent their school at the South African Kyokushinkan tournament in Vosloorus on August 10.

The karatekas, including Cuba Makgoka, Makwena Matlabo, Kenia Makgoka, Adolph Maepa, Thato Moholoa, Oagile Kgosana, Bokang Kgosana, Naledi Mampane, Kgotso Molepo, Kgotsupo Rampheri, Eric Matsetela, Kgotso Molaba, and Tetelo Molaba, aim to return home with silverware.

Sempai Peter Malatji said the team and its senior instructors hope to bring back at least five trophies each for the kumite and kata competitions.

“The tournament is a full-contact event with minimal protective gear for the older teenagers. For some, it will be their first time competing, but for the Molaba siblings, it’s another tournament in another year,” Malatji said.

“The siblings are always prepared to fight but are limited by funding, as they rely on their parents to cover travel, food, and competition fees. The journey is always challenging, but the results are worth it.

“Each time they prepare for a tournament, they must decide who will attend to ensure at least one or two represent the family and the club. Their elder brother, who is in Phalaborwa, will be focusing on his Gr 12 studies and will not participate in this event.”

Malatji also mentioned the need for financial support, saying, “Like other families, the students need funding for such events and would appreciate donations to help them travel to Gauteng and back. With extra effort and time during training, the students are committed to representing the club well.”

Sensei Zeth Ntini, a veteran of the club, has dedicated time to assist the students with fighters’ training, sharing his experiences from Japan before retiring from competition. His advice to the team is to train hard so that their fights can be easy and enjoyable.