The SAJKA Heidelberg Dojo, under the leadership of sensei Bernard Raubenheimer, hosted its highly successful 49th Championship on October 18 at Hoër Volkskool’s hall, which also served as the 7th sensei Dries la Grange Memorial Championship.

“I am very pleased with the excellent turnout, with 185 entries across 89 divisions from 15 dojos. The late sensei Dries la Grange established Heidelberg’s karate club in the 1970s, and it remains a great honour for us at the Heidelberg Dojo to pay tribute to him through this annual championship,” said Raubenheimer.

Competitors from across the country participated, including karatekas from the Syndicate group (Bassonia, Alberton, and Henley on Klip) under sensei Bruce Smit, as well as dojos from Benoni, Brakpan, Boksburg, Krugersdorp, Potchefstroom, Vryburg, Harrismith, Bethlehem, Secunda, Ermelo, Bethal, Frankfort, Vrede, Solis Ortis Pretoria, JKA Florentia, Greenstone, Heidelberg and Nigel.

Throughout the day, karatekas demonstrated a high level of skill and discipline during both kata (form) and kumite (sparring) events, giving their all to secure top positions.

Ruan Oosthuizen from Vryburg Dojo was named best junior male, while Liezel Rautenbach and Chriselda Viljoen, both from Heidelberg, shared the best junior female trophy.

The senior men’s trophy was won by SA Open champion Sean Williamson from Greenstone Dojo. Tanja Roets from Heidelberg claimed the title of best senior female.

Karatekas from Raubenheimer’s Heidelberg and Nigel dojos performed exceptionally well, bringing home a total of 135 medals, including 36 gold, 39 silver and 60 bronze.