Judo and karate rake in medals
Calistus Kolantsho | Wednesday July 8, 2015 14:18
Ryushin-Kan brought home seven gold medals, five silver and 12 bronze medals from individual events. The style bagged two gold, two silver and other two bronze medals in team event.
Sensei Isaiah Ramontshonyana said the team could have brought home more medals, but unfortunately they missed the first day of the Ryushin-Kan Africa Championships. Ramontshonyana explained they had encountered some logistical challenges at the Tlokweng border and were forced to return and leave the next day after they had sorted out their documentation.
He said when they arrived in Bloemfontein the championship was already in progress, but that did not deter their thirst for gold.
Ramontshonyana also said the style had sent 42 athletes who competed in various categories ranging from six years.
“It was not easy to come from behind and win. Normally when you miss the first day, it affects the morale of the athletes. But fortunately they worked hard and it is a sign that the preparations for the annual championship were spot on,” he said. Other countries that took part in this tournament include Namibia, Mozambique and Swaziland.
Ramontshonyana said Karabo Madianakedi was awarded a second Dan black belt, while his counterpart, Tumisang Sehularo was graded to first Dan black belt.
Judo instructor, Sensei Kingsley Segokotlo said his team that participated at Invitational Judo tournament held at Stellenbosch brought four gold medals, three silver and three bronze medals. He said although they had initially wanted to send 25, they had only sent 22 because one had school commitments while the other had an injury.
Segokotlo, however, noted that their performance was impressive nevertheless.
“Such a score is an achievement considering that there were many participants. We used the opportunity as part of preparations for future continental games,” he said.
The gold medalists are Unice Motswaiso (under 32 kilograms category), Gwafila Tema (under 50 kilograms category), Joseph Pelotsane (under 27 kilograms) and Leo Rebakgosi who was fighting in the under 34 kilograms category.
Chris Baraedi (under 38 kilograms), Dineo Ncube, who fought in the under 38 kilograms, and Neo Kapeko who competed in the under 52 kilograms brought home silver medals. Bronze medals went to Moyana Otukile (under 55 kilograms), Calvin Janie (under 38 kilograms) and Thadi Babuile who took part in the 12-year-old girls category.
Other participants were from Mauritius, Swaziland, Mozambique and South Africa.
Meanwhile, the Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) acting chief executive officer, Thato Kgosimore applauded the performance of the two codes, which he said was highly impressive. He also noted that local athletes have been performing optimally at international and continental competitions, which he said was a welcome development.