Tongaat teen Riya shines
TONGAAT teenager Riya Govender, pictured, impressed in the recent Karate South Africa (KSA) national tournament in Secunda, Mpumalanga and at the KSA League in Tempe Base, Bloemfontein.
In the nationals, the 17-yearold, who boasts provincial colours in karate, claimed a silver medal in the Team Karate category and a bronze medal for Senior Kumite.
In the League 1 tournament, she was a double silver medallist in Team Kata and Team Kumite while she won a double bronze medal in the U21 category and Senior Kumite.
“I was nervous as it was my first time competing in senior nationals, however I did not let my emotions get the best of me and made sure that I gave it my all on the tatami (mat).
“Medalling in the senior division was unexpected, but it has boosted my confidence in my fighting abilities and motivated me to train harder in the dojo,” said Govender, a firstyear Bachelor of Physiotherapy student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
Govender believes that the karate team events are different from the individual events as they are about spirit and fighting with heart.
“You’re not just fighting for yourself but your province as well. Team events bring out a wilder side of me, because I know I’m not alone, that my teammates have my back and that support and encouragement motivates me to push beyond my limits,” she said.
The first league event since the pandemic was an intimidating and exciting challenge for Govender.
“Having to compete with a mask as a protocol has been challenging, however the standard of competition was immaculate and I’m grateful to have been able to share this experience with others,” said Govender, a first dan black belt holder.
Govender, involved in karate for 10 years, believes the art has helped her to challenge herself physically and mentally.
Her involvement in karate has seen her travel internationally. In October 2019, she participated in the World Karate Federation Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile for individual Kumite and Team Kata. In May 2019, she achieved two silver medals, competing in the individual Kumite and Team Karate at the Zone 6 Region 5 competition in Swakopmund, Namibia.
“Karate has taught me the importance of the mind and body duality. Karate has not only enabled me with the skills to defend myself in difficult situations but it has also broadened my perspective on life in general as we are also engaging with a new culture and way of life,” she said.
Govender derives inspiration from Shihan Brando Pillay and boxing legend Muhammad Ali.
“Shihan Brando Pillay’s faith in me was the catalyst for my self-belief. He is always encouraging me to develop not only as a karateka but as a person. Another role model in my life is Muhammad Ali. The confidence and mental strength he exuded inspire me to adopt the same attitude as an athlete. My role models have taught me to dream big and that my potential for success is limitless,” she said.