Karateka needs support to compete in Tokyo

The Duduza community has rallied behind Tshepang Phadime (15) while he raised funds to get himself to Tokyo, Japan, by October 8.

Although he has received much help, he is still a few thousand short of his target – R45 000.

Phadime was invited to compete in Japan after dominating his peers and winning most of the tournaments he participated in this year.

In August, Phadime took on seven fellow fighters and teammates in the Kyokushin Kai-Kan National Full Contact Karate Tournament held in the Voslorus Civic Centre Hall last Saturday. He again dominated his opponents to bring home the gold.

Phadime’s principal, Simphiwe Dinsi of Esibonelo Esihle Secondary School, was overwhelmed by his winning attitude, saying that even how he carries himself at school reflects the image of a champion.

“This boy is a great achievement of this school. He is a positive role model among his peers, and I must say, the school is proud of him,” said Dinsi.

Phadime also came out tops in the 12th Matlosana Karate Tournament in the North West earlier in the year.

Coach and founder of the International Karate Organization Kyokushin Kaikan (IKOK) Sonoda – Duduza, Bheki Radeb, expressed pride in the young fighter.

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“Tshepang has displayed great skill and growth in a short period. I trust him to do well wherever he goes. I know he will represent us well. Karate is an intensive sport, which is why it is guaranteed that anyone training in karate will eventually develop a huge amount of respect and positive attitude and gain courage.

“We do this sport out of love and passion, so from time to time, we rely on our communities to support us with equipment and donations,” said Radebe.

Phadime will also attend a price-giving gala dinner in Tokyo, for which he needs a suit.

Anyone willing to help the young karateka can call shihan Sydney Mawashi Zilimbola of the IKOK Sonoda South Africa on 073 735 7192.