Edenvale karateka claims bronze for South Africa

South Africa secured a podium position at the African Games when Edenvale karateka Marinda Roetz took to the international arena in Ghana.

Marinda returned home on March 13 with a bronze medal after competing in the U50kg senior kumite category.

Hosted in Accra, Ghana’s capital, this year’s event marked the 13th edition of the games, hosted for almost two weeks.

The event was meant to be held last year but was postponed for several reasons.

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Five thousand of Africa’s top athletes and coaches from 55 African countries competed in the games that accommodated 29 selected sports codes.

The event is hosted every four years.

Sensei and coach Michael Roetz said the tournament saw the best athletes from across Africa compete against one another.

Marinda, who came home feeling excited and happy, said she had a good experience at what she described as a tough tournament.

“Despite the months of preparation, one of the biggest challenges is mental toughness.”

Going into the tournament for her first time Marinda was determined to bring a medal home for South Africa and for herself.

In her first bout, Marinda faced Algerian Cylia Ouikene and lost 18-0.

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She said in her second fight she needed to accumulate points if she was to make her hopes a reality.

Marinda faced Botswana’s Amantle Leburu and emerged victorious with a final score of 10-5.

Marinda said preparation for the games took time. She explained the training with her father and her brother greatly assisted.

“I needed a partner and my brother offered. This was beneficial as it helped me practice and refine my drills,” said Marinda.

“The support I received from my family made a massive difference; it takes a team effort to achieve something this great. Without them, it would have been a different experience.”

Returning with her medal motivated Marinda to train even harder.

“Winning the medal opened my eyes to what is possible. It helped me realise that dreams can be achieved and do come true if you work towards them,” said Marinda.

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With the upcoming Region Five Tournament to be held soon, Marinda hopes to attain her national colours by competing in a series of local tournaments and being selected for the Karate South Africa team for the tournament.

Michael explained the Region Five Tournament, an all-styles event, will be held in Namibia and will see various Southern African countries compete.

“I have faith that God has a plan for me and that through hard training and preparedness, I will win gold at the next African Games,” said Marinda.