The annual Northern KwaZulu-Natal JKA karate camp was held at Kwasinungu over the weekend of August 23.

The Ladysmith dojo met up with more than 100 karatekas, both young and old, from Northern KZN and Mpumalanga for this event.

Once everyone had been allocated a bed, the seniors opened the camp on Friday evening with a hard and rewarding class, followed by a warm meal and pleasant conversation around the campfire.

Saturday morning started bright and early with a brisk and chilly run at 6am.

After a hearty breakfast, the activities – ranging from kata and kumite to karate basics – began.

But karate camp is not just about karate. It’s about teamwork, stamina and mental strength, and about overcoming the fears and anxiety of the challenges the karatekas had to face not only as individuals but as a team.

Competition was fierce as all three teams seemed equally matched.

Good sportsmanship, team spirit and camaraderie were the order of the day and even though there can only be one winner, all participants reached their ultimate goal, ie to do their best and survive the physical and mental challenges without too many bruises.

Afterwards, activities were enjoyed such as paint-ball, clay-lat and go-carting.

Saturday evening was spent around the campfire and there was a challenging walk around the lapa in a blindfold, aided only by a rope guiding the way!

All too soon, Sunday morning arrived and karatekas were faced with the anti-climax of the end of another successful camp and an arduous journey home. To all the karatekas of Northern KwaZulu-Natal JKA, thank you for your valued support and loyalty to the art that is karate.

For more information on JKA karate, contact Shani Honiball on 072-375-5174.