Dorfman Karate’s medal-winning legacy continues to shine
Led by Malcolm and Shane Dorfman, Dorfman Karate is renowned for its blend of world-class karate and commitment to tradition.
Parktown North and Melrose are home to a unique powerhouse of discipline, tradition, and triumph: Dorfman Karate. Run by the formidable father-and-son duo, Malcolm and Shane Dorfman, this iconic dojo is celebrating multiple milestones this year. With over 55 years of rich history, and members who have been part of the family for over four decades, Dorfman Karate is more than a dojo; it’s a legacy.
Read more: Dorfman Karate champs journey to second dan at the KWF SA Championships
“We’ve produced many national and world champions,” reflects Malcolm Dorfman, a world-renowned 9th Dan black belt and head of the KWF South Africa Karate Federation. “But the heart of what we do is teaching the essence of traditional Japanese karate, both physically and mentally.”
Reflecting on a milestone year
Dorfman Karate’s 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. Kicking off with a massive seminar in March, Dorfman hosted 400 participants who trained rigorously for hours under the guidance of senior senseis. This intensive training set the tone for a year of remarkable achievements.
The dojo showcased its courage in June at the KWFSA National Junior Championship. With 72 entries from Parktown North and Melrose dojos, Dorfman Karate walked away with an astonishing 77 medals, 29 gold, 17 silver, and 31 bronze. Among the standouts were 13-year-olds, Nathan Gavin and Safiya Barklem, each clinching four gold medals.
November saw the dojo’s senior competitors shine at the KWFSA Senior Championship. With only 20 entries, they secured 28 medals, including 9 golds. Nineteen-year-old Matthew Pine emerged as the day’s star, bagging two golds and a silver.
Also read: Parktown based learners shine at karate championship
But perhaps the most heartwarming highlight was the annual Dorfman Karate Children’s Championship. This unique event includes a ‘Tough Kids’ competition, where children compete in exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, and rope jumping. The competition is as much about family, as it is about fitness, with parents cheering loudly for their young warriors. “It’s about fostering a love for exercise and building strength,” says Dorfman. “The atmosphere is electric, with families fully involved.”
Milestones and moving forward
The dojo celebrated significant achievements in black-belt gradings. Among the highlights were Pine, achieving his second Dan at just 19, Charles Kallenbach earning his second Dan at 70, and Mike Adamson securing his fourth Dan at 80.
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be a monumental year. Dorfman Karate celebrates its 55th anniversary, and Dorfman marks 30 years as the head of the KWF South African Karate Federation. The dojo also has its sights set on the global stage, with plans to compete in the World Shotokan Karate-do Association Championship in Spain and the KWF World Congress and World Cup in Tokyo.
A legacy of excellence
Dorfman Karate continues to welcome new members, inviting all ages to join its family and immerse themselves in the art of traditional Japanese karate. With a legacy rooted in discipline, respect, and excellence, Dorfman Karate is not just about medals; it’s about shaping lives.
To become part of this iconic dojo and start your karate journey, visit Dorfman Karate in Parktown North or Melrose. Whether you are a future champion or looking to strengthen your mind and body, the dojo is ready to welcome you into its family.
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Related article: Dorfman Karate kids strike gold at the KWF SA Junior Champs
