Young or old, the only barrier to success is the willingness to compete.
The karateka of Horizon Karate Centre returned from the South African Japan Karate Association (JKA) Gauteng Championships with exceptional results. Ellis Park Arena hosted roughly 1 600 entrants over two days, March 11 and 12. The novice section, which covers the white to red belts, was decided on the Friday, with the brown and black belted elites hitting the mat on the Saturday.
The Ontdekkers Road-based dojo earned a collection of 49 medals across all belts in the kata and kumite disciplines. As well as a total of 16 gold, 15 silver and 18 bronze, 6th Dan black belt Sensei Wendy Wannenburg also helped 49 of her karateka qualify for the upcoming SA JKA national championships. On May 20 and 21, Sensei Wendy will be sending her army of multi-aged Gi warriors back to the Ellis Park Arena with a hope of a dominant repeat of results.
“It is so rewarding to see growth and development in my students. Karate is so much more than a sport and the benefits of karate training are numerous, especially the respect and discipline that are the key pillars that we teach. Genuine traditional JKA karate teaches both physical skill and life skills,” said Sensei Wendy, adding that the recently completed tournament promoted categories for every age, skill level, gender and special need, as proof of the sport’s commitment to inclusivity.
