Botswana Kofukan Association public relations officer, George Tshikare has expressed concern about the low turnout of karatekas at the association’s tournament in Selebi Phikwe on September 7.

The tournament, which was held at Selebi Phikwe Senior Secondary School (SPSS), only attracted six schools, two primary and four secondary schools and two clubs. Tshikare said the low attendance was not good for the development of the sport.

Tshikare said the tournament was not only confined to Kofukan, but was also open to other styles of karate which they have extended invitations to. He said Kofukan was working around the clock to start the Reba Bona Ha grassroots development programme. 

Notwithstanding the fact the programme had not yet started, karate had many students in the 6-13 year bracket at primary schools and clubs around the country. He said the sport still needed to attract trained coaches for it to grow. He commended karatekas for their sterling perforce without trained coaches.

Tshikare said Botswana Kofukan Association has a two year sponsorship agreement with Electrical Junction, but that the contract expires next year. Six schools namely Segomotso Primary School, SPSS,Makhubu all from Selebi Phikwe, Kgari Sechele from Molepolole,

Palapye’s Lotsane Senior School and Penekene Junior Schools from Mahalapye participated on individual and team styles. Participants were divided into categories 6-13 years from primary schools and clubs, 15-16 from junior secondary schools while senior schools battled in the 16-17 age categories. SPSS scooped the first position and grabbed a floating throphy while Lotsane and Kgari Sechele came second and third respectively.

In the junior secondary category, Makhubu emerged the overall winner while Pekenene came second. In the clubs and primary category, Eagles Club from Selibe Phikwe got the first prize with Glen Valley and Segomotso Primary School got second and third positions respectively. There were also medals and trophies for individual performances. ENDS