SEBOKENG. – Three local karateka’s have qualified to represent South Africa at the World Karate Tournament in Japan this December.

The athletes, Mpho Ngo and Lerato Mohanoe, earned their place after the Vaal Dojo Karate Club delivered a five-star performance at a tournament in Vosloorus on Saturday, bringing home championship medals and trophies.

This is not the first time the club has gone beyond the Vaal and conquered. At a previous Vosloorus tournament, they dominated the mats and returned with five trophies. Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Mohanoe shared the exciting news while also acknowledging the challenges ahead. He explained that since the passing of the late Sensei Buti Matlabe, he has been carrying forward the vision of Vaal Dojo, determined to keep the club’s winning spirit alive.

“Our biggest challenge now is raising funds for the trip,” Mohanoe said.

“We want to make a humble plea to the Sedibeng community to support us because we don’t have any sponsorship. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to represent not only the Vaal, but also South Africa, on the world stage. We don’t want to miss it because of financial constraints.”

The club is appealing to local businesses and community members to come on board and help ensure the three karateka’s can proudly fly the South African flag in Japan.