Hayashi-Ha heads to the US

The three-day event kicks off on March 21. He said it is wonderful to be invited to perform at such a big event. Hayashi-Ha is the only karate style that has been invited from Botswana. Ditlhong attributed their recognition by the Americans to commitment and hard work. He said they have always left an impression where they performed.

Ditlhong said they would assemble a 10-member team to take part in the event. They are to include, among others, Zone VI champion Kevin Groth, All Africa Games gold medallists Nonofo Keokilwe and Tebogo Molapong. They will be under the tutelage of Sensei Mpho Bakwadi. He added that the morale in the camp is very high, as the team will be performing in America for the first time. Ditlhong added that they are currently training hard and hope to bring a medal or two from the games. He said the tournament would also help expose Botswana karatekas to higher level contests as America has some of the best karatekas in the world.