Port Shepstone karateka to represent SA in Namibia

Ilhaam Amod (17) from Port Shepstone is among 198 athletes selected to represent Team South Africa at the 11th Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia from July 4 to 13.

The games are organised by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee. Participating countries are Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Amod is a student of Shihan Frank Moodley of the Port Shepstone Shotokan Karate Club, and will be taking part in kumite. She started traditional karate eight years ago, but has been participating in sport karate for the past four years.

She is currently on her second Kyu brown belt and by the end of next year her goal is to achieve her black belt. “I enjoy karate as there’s always opportunities to grow and develop myself. Besides being an athlete you can coach, referee, and judge at various tournaments. My favourite kata is Kunku-sho because one of the moves is a jump and it’s technical, which is difficult to excel in.”

The games will help her to gain more experience for future events, to achieve personal growth, and for self development.

Also, karate means a lot to her as it earns respect.

“In karate, we learn to value other traditions and people. It teaches you independence and prepares you for university and the working environment. My most important rule is to always show respect to my opponents, whether I win or lose,” she said.

Moodley is proud of Amod’s achievements and believes she is capable of doing well.

“Her selection is a significant achievement, highlighting her dedication and talent in karate. She started her karate career at a young age and I am proud that one of my students is not only representing the South Coast, but the country.”

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