The 2026 World Union of Karate-do Federations (WUKF) South African National Championships and Afro-Asia Open, held at the Boardwalk Hotel, Casino and Convention Centre from April 30 to May 3.

The tournament showcased some of the finest karate talent from across the globe, with Alberton’s Cobras Shotokan Karate Club delivering an outstanding performance on the national stage.

Now in its fifth year, the prestigious tournament continues to grow in stature, attracting more than 1 000 athletes who competed in over 2 500 category entries.

Participants represented 23 federations and eight countries, while the event was overseen by 89 referees, including several officials internationally and continentally qualified.

The championships were also attended by Dr Liviu Crisan and Roy O’Kane, underscoring the competition’s international significance.

Representing the South African Shotokan Karate Academy, Cobras Shotokan Karate Club sent 20 students to compete and returned home with an impressive 35 medals,, including 20 gold, five silver, and 10 bronze.

Head instructors sensei Laurent Gaston-Bellegarde and sensei Nicholas Gaston-Bellegarde expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements and dedication.

Among the standout performers were Lisa Tuswa, who secured two gold and one silver medal, Ivy Griffin with two gold medals, and Aiden Watson, who claimed two gold and one bronze medal.

Other notable achievers included Hayley Peel and Keana Truscott, both winning two gold medals, while sensei Andrea Tiedt also earned two gold medals.

Additional medal winners included Shayleen Shelver, Nadia Maphosa, Dneyka Govindan, Sahara Peel, Alexcia Andrade, Carla Campher, Zita Gouveia, Liana Gouveia and Dario Gouveia, each contributing to the club’s remarkable success.

Cobras Shotokan Karate Club trains at Ascot Mews in Newmarket on Monday and Wednesday evenings, offering beginner and advanced classes.

The club also offers prospective students their first two karate lessons free of charge.

For more information, contact sensei Laurent 082 494 2704 or sensei Nicholas 082 302 8637. Alternatively, visit their website.