Father and son bring home gold, silver and bronze from Karate World Championships

A father and son duo from Alberton, sensei Laurent and sensei Nicholas Gaston-Bellegarde, have returned home proudly with gold, silver and bronze medals after representing South Africa at the prestigious WUKF World Karate Championships, which took place from July 9 to 13 in Malmö, Sweden.

Sensei Laurent and his son, both senior instructors at Cobras Shotokan Karate Club, competed among 1 709 athletes from 33 countries during the five-day event.

Their exceptional performances not only earned them individual honours but also marked a milestone. It was the third time they shared the world championship podium.

Laurent described the experience as deeply rewarding after months of intense preparation.

“For the past year we trained and prepared so much. It all seemed to go by so fast once we were there. Yes, it has sunk in. And after being back a week, you start again, looking for ways to improve,” he said.

Nicholas, who secured double gold in kata and kumite in the veteran male 41 to 45 division, said it felt incredible to show their students what consistency and perseverance can achieve.

“The win still gives me goosebumps. It feels great to show our karate students that hard work pays off.”

Laurent competed in the 61 to 65 age group, earning silver in kata and bronze in kumite. Nicholas won gold in the all-styles kata and gold in the under 75kg kumite. He also took part in the team kumite event for athletes over 36.
With more than 3 600 division entries, competition was tough.

“The standard was very high. Beating some of the usual European champions was a definite highlight. But above all, sharing this moment with my father was unforgettable,” said Nicholas.

Although they competed on different floors during kata, they were able to coach and support each other during kumite. Both are certified international coaches and are part of the national coaching team.

“We train together, we teach together, and now we win together,” said Nicholas.

The two have trained side by side for 37 years. Nicholas began karate at age five, and Laurent joined him a month later. They have never stopped.

“For a father, it is the most rewarding gift to be able to share your passion with your child and still achieve success together,” said Laurent.

They are proud instructors at Cobras Shotokan Karate Club, which Laurent founded in 1996. Inspired by the sharpness and speed of the cobra snake, the club has grown from two students to more than 70. Classes are held at their Alberton dojo and at local schools.

The club caters for students from the age of five upwards and is run by five instructors. Several of their students are now training at national level.

“Our aim is to prepare our students to follow us to national and international levels,” said Laurent.

The two believe strongly in the life-changing power of karate. Beyond the physical benefits, they emphasise discipline, respect and personal growth.

“We teach from the front. We lead by example. Many of our students see our journey and realise that success takes time and consistency,” said Nicholas.

Karate in South Africa continues to grow, though international participation remains a challenge for many athletes due to financial constraints.

“Training is not the issue. Funding the travel is,” said Laurent. “Some students manage to secure sponsorships, but many struggle.”

Both father and son are now preparing for the annual SASKA National Championships in Brakpan on September 20. They are also looking ahead to the 2026 WUKF South African Championships and Afro-Asia Open in Gqeberha next April.

For them, the journey is far from over.

“We hope to pass on what we’ve learned to a new generation of champions. Even if someone is not naturally talented, with hard work and the right mindset, they can achieve greatness,” said Laurent.

Their advice to young South Africans dreaming of competing internationally is clear.

“Do not give up. It is not always about talent. It is about consistency. Train hard, stay focused, and your time will come,” said Nicholas.