Newcastle hosts thrilling SA-JKA Provincial Championships
A total of 165 participants, ranging from five to 62 years old, competed in the annual SA-JKA (Japan Karate Association) NKZN Provincial Championships held in Newcastle on Saturday.
Events and tournament director Warren Bainton, who has been practising karate since the age of four, expressed his amazement at the growing diversity of people taking up karate, both in KZN and across the country..
Bainton went on to commend tournament host, Johan Swart, for putting together yet another well-organised championship. “He (Swart) runs a tight ship,” remarked Bainton.
He added that the standard of refereeing has improved considerably this year as a result of the training courses offered by SA-JKA’s head office.
“We want to ensure that the refereeing is as fair as possible so that we get the right winners,” he explained.
“It’s amazing to see how the level of skill and competency grows every year and the number of entries has grown once again as well,” Bainton added.
“Karate is a very disciplined sport and most children get involved because their parents are looking for a way to instil discipline and respect.
“If there is child that tends to bully other children, for example, it teaches that child to control their aggression. If there is a child who is being bullied, it teaches self-confidence for that child to be able to stand up for himself. It also teaches self-defence techniques and is a relatively inexpensive way to keep fit, healthy and active. Karate is the kind of sport that offers something for everybody.”
‘Karate requires nothing but heart and a willingness to learn’
The provincial SA-JKA championships have been hosted in Newcastle for the past seven years due to the town’s central location and the facilities available.
Qualifying karateka will earn their provincial colours and represent KZN in the Africa Cup, which will be hosted in Johannesburg in May.
“A senior instructor from Japan will attend the Africa Cup and will be giving training to participants,” said Bainton.
Bainton thanked Swart and all the NKZN SA-JKA dojo heads for their hard work and dedication in helping to grow the sport.
“Karate requires nothing but heart and a willingness to learn for you to get started. If you have that, the improved flexibility, balance and strength will flow from there,” concluded Bainton, urging residents to look for the closest dojo on the JKA website to get involved.
Results of the championships will be announced in due course.
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