Local dojo students showcase talent

The medal haul was deserved after the students’ good performances in competitions.

The students proudly show their medals with sensei Lolia Basa (right).

The Brakpan Shotokan Karate Dojo, under the guidance and training of sensei Lolia Basa, recently competed in the Pan-African Shotokan Karate-Do Federation’s (PSFK) National Children’s Championship in Kwa-Thema.

The students participated in kata (technique) and kumite (fighting) on April 27, raking in the medals for the dojo.

In kata, the dojo palmed four gold medals, one silver and one bronze. For kumite, they won four gold, one silver and two bronze.

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The dojo currently has most practises outdoors but would like a permanent indoor location at a low cost because many students can’t afford increased fees.

The dojo mainly trains children and young adults from local townships and low-income families.

According to Basa, this is, in part, to help them learn discipline and keep them off the streets and away from substance abuse.

As the dojo serves low-income students and families, they constantly look for sponsors to help students register for grading, buy uniforms and belts, and travel to and from their grading and competitions.

Interested parties may call Basa on 071 884 3231.