Senpai Peter keeps the love of karate alive

POLOKWANE – Senpai Peter Malatji said that it gives him peace to train the youth and share his passion for the fine art of karate. He keeps the sport alive in Seshego and surrounding areas, despite the current challenges which may cause people to stop their training.

Peter told BONUS that the number of his students increased as a lot of children joined after lockdown in search for an extra-curricular activity to keep them busy after school.

“These children’s karate techniques have improved so much and I’m very proud. I want them to love this sport as much as I do,” he said. Peter said his students are between the ages of five and 16 and he hosts his classes at the Seshego Ngoako Ramahlodi Indoor Centre and the Polokwane Cricket Club. He operates on Mondays to Fridays from 17:00-18:00 and on Saturdays from 08:00-10:00.

He admitted that classes are different now because they had to adopt new ways of training due to Covid-19, and adds that they missed out on many tournaments because of it.

“Many of our national and international events have been cancelled. We were supposed to attend a tournament in Japan in April and an international training camp in Cape Town before everything had to stop. Grading sessions are also different but we are adapting to the new normal,” he said.

According to Peter, karate is not only a physical sport, but one that builds character.

“It helps both young and older individuals to stay physically fit, focused and disciplined. The youth need to be active to avoid being lazy and become obese.

“I would encourage parents to enrol their children in various sport activities as part of their daily routines, as it helps them with schoolwork and to learn respect. It also develops their self-confidence, self-defense skills and it is a great place to make friends. We encourage them to be humble, to have self-control and to appreciate their loved-ones at all times.”

To join the fun, contact Peter on 081 039 7842.

anne@nmgroup.co.za