Karate spirit shines at Kofukan SA’s bi-annual grading in Diepkloof

The Kofukan South Africa Karate Team held its bi-annual grading ceremony together with its sister branch based in Brits, North West.

Not even the cold weather could deter the karatekas from pursuing their new grades at the event held at Diepkloof Hall on June 28.

The bi-annual gradings take place around June each year, with a second grading held at the end of the year.

All Kyu-grade karatekas are eligible to grade twice a year, but once they reach the third Kyu brown belt level, they are required to grade only once a year.

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“Our first batch of athletes attempting new grades included Esihle Boholo and Lethabo Maloka. Boholo is a seven-year-old boy who has been with the club for almost two years and has progressed remarkably.

:His determination and zeal are outstanding. Watching him perform his katas and combinations on the tatami will blow your socks off, especially at his age.

“This was his second grading, and he attempted a full yellow belt grade. He completed all requirements according to our grading syllabus and left us speechless as we could find no errors. He passed his yellow belt grading with flying colours,” said Sensei Thabo Molubi of Kofukan South Africa.

“Maloka did not disappoint either, rising to the occasion. “He has been training with us for five months and has shown great determination in the sport.

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“I’m glad that he and Boholo are becoming karateka buddies sharing a common goal.”

Maloka passed his yellow stripe grading successfully and at a satisfactory level..
Chariska Human and Marcus Erasmus also attempted their orange belt gradings, delivering extraordinary performances on the tatami.

“They have both been with us for a couple of years and continue to improve with every grading. Both were successful and promoted to orange belts.”

Among the senior karatekas grading were Tshepo Lechuti and Andries Goosen, who led by example.

Their performance was of a very high standard. Lechuti was promoted to green belt, while Goosen was promoted to purple belt.

Goosen is one of the male karatekas who shone on the day and is considered a future Protea athlete for the dojo.

Two girls stole the show with outstanding performances: Holla Rangongo and Mia Du Preez. Their standard was excellent, and their determination to earn new grades was remarkable.

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“When girls perform to their maximum in sport, it inspires us all and signals a bright future for young women in sports.

“Rangongo and Du Preez were both promoted to second KYU brown belt grades due to their exceptional performance and commitment.”

Residents interested in enrolling with the team can contact Sensei Thabo Molubi on 079 921 3600.