25 Jul 2017

The Japanese Karate Association Botswana (JKA) held a grading session at BOKA Hall on July 22 which saw all participants qualifying to the next level.

The association organised a two-day training and standardisation course where participants got a chance to be trained by the experienced Sensei Eddy Mtshali, who is in charge of JKA Southern African countries from South Africa.

JKA chairperson, Sensei Steady Basupang urged athletes to be determined and to put more effort in working hard for the enhancement of karate in the country.

Sensei Basupang advised all the karatekas graded to ensure that they compete during the JKA championships scheduled for September, adding that it would prove that they had learned and acquired skills which they would apply when competingt. 

He awarded diploma’s to some of karatekas and noted that the delay in certificates being issued after the athletes graded in 2015 was that they were prepared in Japan and routed through South Africa, adding that  there were some process involved in making them.

Recipients who got awarded included Sensei Boiki Mophakedi who received a diploma in Yondan also known as fourth dan black belt, while Sensei Utlwang Toko received a diploma in Nidan and a diploma in Sandan, which is known as third dan black belt, while Sensei China Metswi and Sensei Kgosi Dibotelo received diploma’s in Sandan respectively.

Oarabile Dibotelo, Lame Hetanang and Kefilwe Ntsuke attained diploma’s in first dan black belt. 

Sensei Mtshali, a 7^th dan black belt, said the training sessions were key in the development of athletes, adding that athletes should know the right technique and basics in karate.

 Sensei Mtshali urged athletes to perfect their hip movement, to apply tactics with dynamics and to control their breathing as they were key in karate.

He noted that most karate techniques had turning moves which helped athletes to gain more power.

He said that was why he ensured that all athletes saw and got the feel of doing proper techniques and making sure they know the sequence and number of moves in the katas.

He added that etiquette was key in karate hence all karatekas should be well behaved and have good discipline.

Sensei Mtshali urged senior karatekas to assist the juniors, adding that there were no short cuts hence they should be patient in all they do and want to achieve in life.

He said some karatekas miss training sessions when they become black belts or come late for training. He added that regardless of the rank someone holds, they should be committed to training, to be honest, to be firm and straight at all times. 

JKA vice chair, technical, Sensei Mophakedi announced that all athletes who participated in the grading event managed to pass and make it to the next level.

He urged all karatekas to ensure that there was growth in the sport and encouraged all those who qualified to make it happen at their dojos.

He said it was important for the quality of the sport to match the numbers of those who were members and for the standard of the sport to grow as new members join in. ENDS