Karate sisters claim podium places at global KSI tournament
The girls have set their sights on reaching black belt and becoming world champions
TWO Wentworth sisters are set to conquer the world as they progress together in the karate world.
The Victors, Alyssa (11) and Nicarla (13) started their journey six years ago after a spate of kidnapping scares led their father to enrol them in karate lessons at the Academy of Martial Arts Subarashii dojo to learn self-defence and safety.
“At first it was about protecting ourselves and each other from any danger we faced, but it ended up becoming a passion for the both of us,” said big sister Nicarla.
Alyssa is an Assegai Primary pupil, while Nicarla attends Grosvenor Girls’ High School.
The two placed second in their respective categories after competing in the Kimura Shukokai International (KSI) world tournament in Sweden, which took place from 19 to 21 July. “I didn’t think I was going to place because the competition was tough, Portugal being the toughest,” said Nicarla. “I guess we both proved ourselves wrong,” she giggled.
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The sisters spend at least five days a week training and thank their parents for pushing them to be their best all the time. “It’s a lot of work but we can handle it. Nothing comes easy without a bit of blood, sweat, and tears,” added Alyssa.
Facing 20 different countries, the South African KSI team was been led to victory for the fourth time since 2012. The SA team has won the biennial championship every year since 2012, making their 2018 victory the team’s fourth consecutive win.
The girls have set their sights on reaching black belt and becoming world champions. “2020 better watch out because we are coming to win it all!” laughed Nicarla.
