Randpark Ridge karate girl gets a 4th Dan in Japan

Seishin Martial Arts Academy can be proud of sensei Emma Wentzel, who has returned from a tough training camp and grading for her 4th Dan black belt in Japan.

This follows her placing second in kumite and eighth in kata at the World Goju-Ryu Karate Championships in Malaysia in September last year.

Wentzel is the chief instructor and owner of the dojo in Randpark Ridge, where she teaches children karate as well as core strength, fitness, endurance and discipline.

The 4th Dan black-belt holder was invited to participate in the Seiwakai International training Camp in Akita, Japan.

“The aim of this intensive five-day training camp was to improve the level of karate and provide standardisation for students from around the world in order to better prepare them for their upcoming black belt gradings,” Wentzel explained.

“I had the opportunity to train with Seiichi Fujiwara Hanshi (president of Seiwakai International) and Vassie Naidoo Shihan [of Seiwakai USA. Both are 8th Dan].”

Wentzel was awarded her 4th Dan black belt after a tough three days of grading.

It all started for Wentzel when she was 19 years old and attending a get-together with friends when a guest explained to her how karate worked.

“She then demonstrated a kata, pre-defined form or pattern, and I fell in love with what I was seeing.”

For Wentzel, karate has the power to connect race, religion and creed. It also empowers the participant with self-esteem and confidence.

She taught as an assistant instructor at a dojo before she received her 3rd Dan and decided to open her own dojo in 2014.

She hopes more girls and men will take up the martial art for self-defence.

“As a woman, you need to realise that you have value beyond that which society tries to place on you. That your lives, and the lives of friends and family are important enough to fight for. Instead of being submissive, because of any perceived weakness, women can be strong enough to defend themselves in any situation.”

The sensei hopes to achieve many levels above 4th Dan, although she recognises that to reach the highest level (10th Dan) it will require a lifelong commitment and a lengthy grading process.

Details: Seishin Martial Arts Academy emma@seishinmaa.co.za; 083 681 9918.

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