Local karatekas win competition in Durban
This is one of the major tournaments in the calendar of Karate South Africa as it comprises of all karate athletes from around the country.
The Kofukan Gauteng team travelled to Durban for the South Africa Open and Development Karate Championships this past weekend.
This is one of the major tournaments in the calendar of Karate South Africa as it comprises of all karate athletes from around the country, and the Diepkloof team prepared in advance.
Sensei Thabo Molubi of Kufukan South Africa said he was impressed with his team’s determination and the hard work they have put in over the June and July school holidays as it has paid off.
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”I have got twins in my dojo, Karabo and Karabelo Maduna who started karate three years ago and their determination and commitment is out of this world. In all the tournaments that they have attended so far they never came back empty handed. What is wonderful about them is that they always compete against each other in the finals of their irrespective divisions,” Molubi said.
He added that the championships took place from July 14 to 15 at t the University of KwaZulu Natal Old Mutual Sport Hall.
“On both days we experienced exhilarating high standard of karate from all the karatekas from across the country.
“The Kofukan Gauteng entered six of its athletes for this competition which was fierce and the divisions were also huge.
“Unfortunately two of our athletes, Janu and Wihan Visagie did not place on their respective divisions. But the Maduna twins managed to bring glory for the team.”
The twins both took part in Kumite and managed to defeat all their opponents, likewise they met at the finals for a first and second position.
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Karabo Maduna was victorious and won a gold medal after defeating her sister Karabelo who settled for a silver medal by coming second.
“This is the last year for the twins to compete under the development divisions and from next year they will now be competing under elite division.
They will also stand a chance to be selected as Protea athletes if they continue to work hard and always make a podium finish,” said Molubi.
“I am delighted and very much happy as an instructor for these girls to be flying the Soweto flag high on the National level. I am still encouraging all the parents around Soweto to enrol their children in sport.”
Residents with interest in Karate can contact sensei Molubi on 079 921 6300 or send an on email to thabomolubi30@gmail.com
