Tebbutt’s journey with karate
In 1971, he learned about karate classes in Rondebult and joined.
Alex Tebbutt started practising karate at 13 and now, at 73, he said he still feels young and that his love for karate is even stronger.
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“Karate has wonderful benefits. I have seen that in my life, hence I’m still active. It’s not only fun but keeps the body fit and strong and keeps the mind alert.
“It’s an excellent tool for self-defence and all ages, genders and people of varying fitness levels can practise this sport,” said Tebbutt.
He is the founder of Tebbutt’s Mixed Martial Arts Academy in Lambton.
Tebbutt started as a boxer in 1960 in Primrose under coach Ricky Nelson. In 1962, he left boxing and started judo under coach Tiger Thompson, where he gained his first black belt around 1965-1966.
“I was always pushing and learning a new sport because I wanted to keep fit, so I would continuously try new sports. Hence, in 1970, I started kung fu,” said Tebbutt.
In 1971, he learned about karate classes in Rondebult and joined.
“Karate was relatively unknown in South Africa, so I wasn’t completely aware of what type of training to expect but went ahead anyway and joined. My trainer was sensei Des Whitehead. I enjoyed it and earned my black belt in Karate Funakhoshi,” said Tebbutt.
After earning his black belt, Tebbutt decided it was time to open his school.
His passion for teaching is clear when he speaks about his students.
“I opened my first school/dojo because I had earned my black belt and felt I needed to give something to my community. Seeing youngsters fall in love with the sport makes me proud. I have father and son students, and they are all special to me when you see them progress in the sport,” said Tebbutt.
He said when he started the sport, he was looking for an avenue to get fit and strong.
“It started as a fitness journey, but I ended up loving it. I found it was something I took to naturally and stayed on and pursued this passion I had developed for this sport,” said Tebbutt.
The highlight of his career was earning his provincial colours in the ’80s.
“Earning my colours was memorable. Hundreds of students would try out and only three were selected from each province per division. Those were tough competitions and people got hurt.
“Only the best of the best were ever selected. After earning my provincial colours, I could try for national SA colours. From 27 students in my division selected from all the provinces, I was one of the three to be selected,” shared Tebbutt.
He also earned his SA Springbok colours with his daughter.
“In 1992, my daughter, Elize, and I both earned our SA colours in kickboxing and were chosen to be part of the South African team to compete in the USA Pan American World Championships,” said Tebbutt.
“Karate has taught me etiquette, sincerity, character, effort and self-control. I found I’ve learned these things most profoundly while practising this sport.”
