World Karate Federation lauds Zim

WORLD Karate Federation (WKF) vice president Bechir Cherif believes the African Union Sports Council Region 5 Karate Federation (UFAK Region South) Championships offer a good platform to showcase the abundant talent in Southern Africa.

Zimbabwe will host the UFAK Championships at the City Sports Centre in Harare from June 8 to 11.

Cherif is expected to be part of the high-powered delegation from WFK that will grace the event.

He paid tribute to the Zimbabwe National Karate Federation and the regional committee for committing to host the 2023 edition.

“On behalf of the executive committee of the Union of African Karate Federations, I have the pleasure of congratulating Sensei Joe Rugwete, president of both the Zimbabwe National Karate Federation and UFAK Region South, and the entire Southern Region Committee for their contribution and all efforts in the organisation of this event being held in the famous Southern Africa region,” Cherif said.

“The presence of various delegations offers a great opportunity for the athletes and participants to strive for the Olympic values that include dignity and humility.”

He also thanked WKF president Mr Antonio Espinós for his continuous efforts to elevate karate and the federation to the highest level, as well as his support to karate in Africa.

Rugwete said Zimbabwe took pride in being tasked to stage the event.

“For Southern Africa, this showcase has become an annual spectacle, where hundreds of athletes, officials, parents, guardians and spectators gather to participate and watch our children, cadets, juniors, seniors, as well as veterans, competing for victory,” Rugwete said.

“The African Union Sports Council Region 5 Karate Federation will, as in every year, do everything in its power to work with the hosts, this time the Zimbabwe National Karate Federation, to make this event successful and to best welcome the athletes, coaches, officials and spectators that will be present . . .”

He said hosting world-renowned instructor Prof Antonio Oliva Seba, who will also conduct a coaching clinic on the sidelines of the championships, will leave the entire region equipped with up-to-date karate skills.

“The competition will apply the 2023 WKF categories, with each national federation permitted to enter a maximum of four athletes per category,’’ Rugwete added.

The different age groups and weight categories will mainly compete in kata and kumite.