Karate kid heads for world competition
This week we chat to 12-year-old Daniel Gower about his qualification for the SA karate team.
He will be attending the International Shotokan Karate Federation World Shoto Cup in London later this year and has helped in his fundraising for the trip. Gower also has celiac disease, making his karate achievement that much more impressive.
When did you start karate?
I started when I was six years old in grade 1. I joined the ISKF East London Dojo and train with sensei Russell Symes.
What are some of the lessons that karate has taught you?
Respect, self-discipline and that if I work hard, I can achieve my goals.
What goals do you hope to achieve?
I have my brown belt and next year I want my junior black belt. When
I’m 16, I can grade for my black belt. I want to continue training, competing and train others.
How did you find out about the tournament?
I found out after receiving a letter of invitation from the International Shotokan Karate Federation of SA.
How did you qualify?
I qualified at SA Nationals in Pretoria in September 2022. I placed third for my kata and received a bronze medal.
What are you most excited about for this tournament?
I’m excited to compete for my country. It will also be a good way to compare myself against children my age from around the world.
What other tournaments have you competed in and how is this one different?
I have competed at various regional tournaments in Makhanda, Komani and at Fish River Sun. Recently, I competed at the World Union Karate Federation and the SA National Champions and Afro-Asia Open in Gqeberha. I placed seventh for kata in my age and weight group and fifth for my kumite. We were even visited by President Cyril Ramaphosa. I am not sure how the Shotokan World Cup in London will be different, but I am very excited to be going.
How much money is needed?
I need to raise R80,000. It will be used for flights, training camps, kit, accommodation, meals (and gluten-free snacks) and my Visa.
How did you come up with the idea to make and sell ice lollies?
I came across an advert on Marketplace of the machine to make ice lollies. We needed a way to raise money. We took a risk and hoped people would support us and get value for their money. The support has been amazing so far.
What flavours do you sell?
Frozen cranberry and sour cherry, granadilla and naartjie, mango and naartjie, pineapple and pomegranate.
What are your pricelists?
R15 each, R140 for 10, R240 for 20. R350 for 30 and pricing for retailers are available on request.
Do you have any other fundraising projects?
We have raffle projects with prices such as photoshoot vouchers, wine bottles as well as a steak evening.
Where and how can our readers reach you?
My mother, Dawn Gower, is available to provide any further information on 083-712-4176 or dawngower9@gmail.com.