The 24th edition of the KWF SA Junior Champs concluded with remarkable success, particularly for the Dorfman Karate Institute.
This prestigious event, showcased the dedication and skill of over 600 young karatekas from across the nation, aged between 5 and 17 years. Participants ranged from novice white belts to seasoned black belts, with several students from Dorfman Karate, known for their excellence on national and international stages, leading the charge. The competition featured kata (form) and kumite (fighting) sections, challenging students in diverse aspects of Shotokan karate.
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Dorfman Karate, composed of the Malcolm Dorfman Karate Institute in Parktown North and the Shane Dorfman Karate Institute in Melrose, demonstrated exceptional skill at the tournament. With 169 entries, their students secured a staggering 27 out of 55 sections, achieving a total medal count of 86. Notably, 17 team members won multiple medals, and six students clinched two or more gold medals, highlighting the dojo’s depth of talent.
The standout performances included Safiya Barklem, who claimed four gold medals and one bronze, and Nathan Gavin, who won four gold medals. These top performers exemplified the rigorous preparation and dedication instilled by the dojo.
Reflecting on the tournament’s outcome, Shane Dorfman remarked, “The performance of our students at this year’s tournament is a testament to their hard work and the traditional values of Shotokan karate that we instil in them. Our training focuses on physical techniques and building mental strength and character, which are crucial for success in and out of the dojo.”
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The tournament had participants divided by skill level and age group, ensuring fair competition. In kata, competitors performed a set sequence of moves judged on form and mindset. Kumite involved actual combat, with points awarded for effective strikes.
In preparation for the tournament, training intensity was increased, and special Saturday sessions were organised for specific divisions. Malcolm and Shane led these sessions, providing personalised instruction tailored to each student’s competition needs. KWF SA, affiliated with the KWF World Federation, emphasises traditional Shotokan karate principles, and is led globally by Mikio Yahara Shihan, and locally by Malcolm Dorfman Shihan and Shane Dorfman Shihan.
Dorfman Karate’s strong history of producing national and world champions is a testament to its effective training methods and philosophical grounding. Shane advises, “Dedicated, mindful training is essential, as is resilience in the face of challenges. Viewing setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures is crucial for long-term success”. The 24th KWF SA Junior Champs highlighted the young karatekas’ technical skills and competitive spirit and reinforced the life skills of confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship.
