02 Jun 2019

Ghanzi-based Hayashi-Ha karate Club will send karatekas to the upcoming Gaborone Open International Karate Championship scheduled for June 8.

Club instructor, Sensei Nonofo Keokilwe, said the club will send 12 karatekas to take part on both kata and kumite categories.

He said though their club was only four months old, it was important to send a team to tournaments of such caliber so that they could give their youngsters an exposure.

He said the team had all it takes to compete in any tournament.

However, Sensei Keokilwe said they were not under any pressure.  

He said some of the club members would accompany the team to offer support and encouragement. 

Sensei Keokilwe, a former national team player, said the support they received from parents was overwhelming.

Ghanzi East Administrative Authority deputy district commissioner, Patrick Tlotleng wished the team well during a sendoff ceremony recently.

Tlotleng advised them to display commitment and professionalism and should not be under any pressure.

“If you do what you have learnt you will emerge as champions.” 

Nonetheless, he said they should be open to acquire or learn new skills from others.

Also, he said it was important for parents to allow their children to participate in sport while still young because it was easy to develop their talent. 

“Starting karate at tender age is an advantageous, kids grasp the basics of karate with ease at early ages.”

The team is expected to leave Ghanzi on June 7. ENDS