The Lenasia South IKKF Karate Club proudly represented their community at a national tournament organised by the IKO Matsushima organisation, held between 31 August and 1 September 2024 in Umlazi, Section D, KwaZulu-Natal. The club was represented by seven male senior students and one female senior student, who all showcased their skills and dedication on a national stage.
Among the competitors, Banele Radebe, the only female senior student from the club, stood out by reaching the finals on 1 September. Competing in the under 55kg women’s division, Radebe secured an impressive second place, demonstrating exceptional talent and determination.
The tournament was graced by distinguished guests, including the Minister of Sports and Culture and his team from the National Department, as well as Honorable Member of Parliament Gayton McKenzie. Their presence added a special significance to the event and highlighted the importance of supporting grassroots sports development.
Sensei Mabati Makwela, the head of the Lenasia South IKKF Karate Club, expressed his pride in the performance of his students, noting that for many of them, this was their first experience competing at a national level. “I was impressed by the improvements shown by my students. Most of them were participating in a national tournament for the first time, and they demonstrated remarkable growth and dedication,” said Sensei Makwela.
The success of the Lenasia South IKKF Karate Club at the tournament was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including the National Lotteries Commission, under the supervision of Shihan Sibisi, founder of the African Full Contact Karate Organisation (AFCKO) NPO. The club extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to transportation, attire, accommodation, and catering for the trip from Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal.
The Lenasia South IKKF Karate Club is based at the Lenasia South Civic Centre Hall, Extension 04, at the corner of Wimbledon and Willington Streets. Training sessions are held from Monday to Thursday, between 16:00 and 18:00, and are offered free of charge to all interested participants. Sensei Makwela welcomes all sponsors to continue supporting the club, especially since many of the karatekas come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
For more information or to join the club, contact Sensei Makwela at 073 441 3353
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