Region 5 showpiece set to light up The Dome
Karate
Swakopmund will be host to the Africa Region Five (also referred to as Region South) Karate Federation Championship, from Friday to Saturday at MTC The Dome. The tournament kicks off on Saturday and will see an adrenaline-fueled showcase of martial arts prowess as the finest karate athletes from Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola and Zambia converge.
The defending champions for the tournament is South Africa.
Hosts Namibia finished fourth overall last year hosted in Zimbabwe, winning a total of 42 medals which comprised of four gold, 14 silver and 24 bronze medals.
This year Team Namibia boasts a team of 149 athletes, both male and female.
According to the vice-president of the Namibian Karate Federation, De Wet Moolman: “The Region South karate tournament being hosted in Swakopmund this year is not only a showcase of athletic prowess, but also a significant opportunity for Namibia.”
This event brings together the finest karate talent from across Southern Africa, providing local athletes with a chance to compete against and learn from the best in the region.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the tournament fosters cultural exchange and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike. It’s a platform where different nations come together to celebrate the art of karate, emphasizing values like discipline, respect, and personal growth, which are integral to the sport’s tradition.
“Hosting such an event is a testament to Namibia's growing stature in the African karate community. It boosts tourism, local businesses, and community spirit in Swakopmund, showcasing our ability to organize and host international sporting events effectively,” Moolman highlights.
“Friday’s program will be filled with thrilling Kata performances on, highlighting the technical mastery and artistry of individual competitors.
“On Saturday, the Kumite bouts will electrify the audience with their intensity and skill, offering a spectacle that appeals to both karate enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
“This tournament is not just about sports, it's about inspiring the next generation of athletes and promoting the values that karate embodies. We encourage everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the sport, to join us at The Dome and experience the excitement first-hand.”
Namibian semi-professional karate athlete, Suzelle Pronk, says her karate journey might be coming to an end soon as this might be her last Region South Karate tournament.
Pronk, who has been in the sport for the past 24 years, has been a stalwart during international participations and will be motivated for the big one in her home town. She just completed a three-month training program in Egypt and hopes to dominate this weekend’s activities.
LIVE BROADCAST on NTV
Friday: 14:30–17:30.
Saturday: 12:00–15:00.
Also online at https://oneuptwo.com/ntv