It’s into the eye of the fiery storm

TOP-CLASS karate action is on the cards from today as the second annual United World Karate South Africa (UWKSA) national championships takes place at the Fish River Sun Hotel and Country Club Resort over the next two days.

The championship will see over 250 competitors of all ages and levels competing in various individual and team categories.

“Given the number of experienced South African karateka already confirmed to participate, the UWKSA championship promises to produce karate-do of an exceptionally high standard,” said UWKSA president Gary Grapentin.

This weekend’s event will be the first of two major karate championships to be staged at the resort this year.

Grahamstown and Port Alfredbased East Cape Shotokan-Ryu (ECSR) will convene the event, with some exciting local as well as national karatekas from all over the country showcasing their skills.

Today will see the competition getting up and running with all kata (forms) categories taking place, while tomorrow will see all-kumite (fighting) categories in the spotlight.

Adding to the excitement of the competition, competitors at this year’s national championship will also be vying for a place on the team which will represent UWKSA at the UWK world championship in Italy later this year.

“United World Karate is an international karate sports body which was formed in 2014,” said Grapentin.

“Soon thereafter the South African Federations affiliated to WUKF and WUKO and AD initiated dialogue with the intent purpose of unifying all affiliated national federations and organisations under the umbrella body, United World Karate South Africa (UWKSA).

“Unification was achieved in March 2015 and UWKSA received official UWK membership status later that year.”

For this weekend’s event the daily entry fee for spectators is R40 for adults and R20 for children and scholars, with two full days of exciting karate action expected.

The championship venue will comprise four competition arenas, each enhanced by overhead lighting, computerised scoring systems and comfortable ringside seating for spectators.

“The Fish River Sun Hotel and Country Club Resort will provide a unique, luxurious and atmospheric setting on the scenic Sunshine Coast of the Eastern Cape,” claimed Grapentin.

“In addition, the championship experience will provide the opportunity for participants, officials, families and supporters of karate to enjoy an unforgettable holiday at the Fish River Sun Hotel and Country Club Resort.”

Today’s opening ceremony will start at 8am, with the first categories getting under way at 9am.

Tomorrow’s action will commence with the first categories from 8am and the action should be concluded by late afternoon.

For accommodation enquiries at the Fish River Sun please contact 040-676-1101 or email