Karateka from NKZN JKA Karate rewarded for hard training

Issued by JKA Karate Club

JAMIE Lee Steenkamp and Shaugne van der Watt obtained their Second Dan (Nidan) on Saturday.

Iram Zaman, Cassidy Steenkamp, Jyothi Balasar, Anthony van der Watt, Trishique Hurriram Ramsamooj, Sanele Mthimkulu and Karl Schutte were also awarded their first level black belts (Shodan) on the same day.

All the grading candidates gave up precious free time, including holidays and weekends to train for the grading. Preparation leading up to the grading included extensive training of approximately eight to twelve hours a week, together with dedication, commitment, travelling as far as Durban and Johannesburg for extra guidance and a fresh outlook, which also assisted with their mental preparation.

Prior to the grading was a training session on Saturday morning which was attended by senior brown belts, junior black belts and black belts under the guidance and experience of Sixth Dan Sensei, Johan La Grange, Technical Director and Chief Instructor of SA JKA. Tips and pointers were given to all in attendance and emphasis was placed on the importance of hip movement and core strength to maximize speed, agility, technique and impact.

Congratulations to all the candidates who passed their grading and also to those who helped them reach this point. It is a wonderful achievement for the individual and the region.

For any information on JKA karate, contact Johan Swart on 083 658 7157.

If you have any interesting stories please send them to: estella@caxton.co.za or Contact us on: 034 981 39 30.

Also Find us on: Facebook, Twitter, and on WhatsApp 060 986 0731.