IT TOOK 14 grueling years, for Sensei Carl Webster of the Academy of Martial Arts Subarashii Dojo to achieve gold at the KSI world tournament which took place from 16 to 22 July.
Webster walked away with top honours in the men veterans kumite 40 heavyweight, making South Africa and his dojo proud.
“It takes place every two years and for the past 14 years, I placed second or third but never first. To have finally achieved first place is a great feeling. I was holding back tears as this has been my dream since I was young. To hear my country’s anthem blaring through the speakers as they announced my triumph was a feeling one cannot describe,” he said with a smile.
READ: Free karate to inspire
He owes gratitude for his progress and his road to success to his parents and wife, without whom he could not have achieved. “They are my rock and I thank them for their continuous support and encouragement when things got tough. They were the real winners behind this,” added Webster.
READ: Bluff teen black belt karateka shares her passion
To top off his win, his South African team ranked first in the world overall. “This is the fourth time South Africa took the top spot in the world tournament.
He shared his win with his club in Wentworth and hopes to have inspired his students to strive for success. “The secret is to work hard towards your goal. Have dreams and ambitions and work on them every day – never give up,” said Webster.
DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics.
To receive news links via WhatsApp, send an invite to 061 876 3179
The Southlands Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest – why not join us there?
Do you have more information pertaining to this story?
Feel free to let us know by commenting on our facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)
