The Spartans Karate dojo had two athletes attend the South African National Championships in Cape Town at the Sunningdale Sports Complex on March 1.
Samantha Maré, the Spartans Karate public relations officer, said the competition was stiff, especially as it was away in Cape Town, and they had to battle against their home advantage.
“The dojo’s members formed part of the Gauteng provincial team and represented the province. They earned their provincial colours, which the Gauteng Sports Council recognises. The athletes performed well, bringing back three individual medals and one from the team event.
“I competed in -68kg female kumite (fighting) and won bronze.”
Juan-Drè Loots participated in the -75kg male kumite, all weights kumite, and team kumite events and won silver and two bronze medals. Sensei Enzo Pillay, the Spartans Karate instructor, is a provincial coach who represented the province at the event. Gauteng Karate finished second in SA, narrowly losing to the Western Cape’s home team.
The competition is the toughest of the year, featuring the top six competitors from each province.
“Spartans Karate managed to better its best-ever Nationals performance from last year and is now aiming to go better at the JNR nationals,” said Maré,
Those interested in joining or learning more about Spartans Karate can find detailed information on various social media platforms under Spartans Karate. Alternatively, call Maré on 072 053 8460.
