- Holds championships for 500 junior karatekas in Gabs and F/town
- Championships doubled as national team selections
GAZETTE REPORTER
Botswana Karate Association (BOKA) conducted its Junior Cadet Championships across two venues, Gaborone’s Dojo Hall and Francistown Senior Secondary School in Francistown over the weekend.
With close to 500 junior karatekas from BOKA-affiliated clubs, Centre School of Excellence and Re Ba Bona Ha participating, the event not only served as a platform for these young athletes to display their skills but also doubled as the national team selections.
BOKA president Mpho Bakwadi expressed his delight at witnessing the prowess of these budding athletes.
Affiliated clubs
“It was indeed great to witness these young athletes showcasing their skills and some earning their spot in the national team,” he remarked in an interview on the sidelines of the competition in Gaborone.
“Our affiliated clubs have played a crucial role in nurturing these talents, especially during the absence of school sports.”
School sports was suspended by the government in 2020 owing to budgetary constraints. The tournament, held amidst the challenges posed by the school sports absence, was a testament to the resilience of the karate community in Botswana.
Bakwadi extended his gratitude to the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC) for its support through various programmes, emphasising the importance of collaboration in fostering sporting excellence, especially in the absence of school sports.
Federations, unions and clubs
Against the background of the Junior Cadet Championships, BOKA is now setting its sights on the upcoming Senior Individual and National Team Selection event scheduled for next Saturday at the BOKA Hall in Gaborone.
This championship, the first of its kind for 2024, will feature individual kata and kumite competitions for both female and male participants. “Federations, unions and clubs are encouraged to enter as many participants as possible,” Bakwadi stated.
“Participation in this championship will not only provide valuable experience but also earn points for participants, increasing their chances of selection for prestigious events such as the 2024 AUSC Region 5 and UFAK Championships.”
Anticipation
With anticipation building up for the Senior Individual Championship, the karate community in Botswana is buzzing with excitement. Bakwadi urged fans to come and witness the crème de la crème of Botswana karate at Dojo Hall in Gaborone on 17 February.
“These championships are not just about competing; they are about shaping the future of karate in Botswana and empowering our youth to dream big,” he said.