PE KARATE CLUB BRINGS HOME NINE MEDALS

PORT Elizabeth’s Dragon Suburbs Karate club in Linton Grange won nine medals at the Japan Karate Association National Championships at the Standard Bank Arena in Johannesburg recently.

Seven selected students from the dojo took part in what is one of the biggest karate events in the country.

First-time competitor and student Johann Fourie won double gold and double bronze for the combined special development yellow belt division.

Marli du Preez and David Zhang each walked away with double gold medals – and were honoured as grand champions in their respective divisions.

Reon Saaiman clinched a silver medal in the junior division.

The karate students are trained by sensei Shaun Kapp, an experienced instructor who trains them at the Edge Fitness Club on Tuesdays and Thursdays. “I’m proud of my students,” he said. “They put in the hours and are always very disciplined.”

Kapp also wants to develop the sport in disadvantaged communities.

“Having received my black belt in 2003, it is my dream to venture into a development project for youngsters in Walmer Township, who have shown a lot of potential in karate but cannot afford the classes,” he said.

The Dragon Suburbs Karate club is open to karate devotees from the age of four to 55 year olds.

Picture: YONELA MOFU FLOWING FORCE: Celebrating their success at the JKA National Championships are, back, from left, Johann Fourie, sensei Shaun Kapp, Marli du Preez, and, front, David Zhang and Reon Saaiman