The inaugural East Cape Shotokan-Ryu (ECSR) and Rhodes University Shotokan Karate Championships was held at Alec Mullins Hall on Saturday. The champs attracted about 220 competitors from 15 Eastern Cape karate clubs and was hosted by the Rhodes University Shotokan Karate Club and ECSR from dojos in Grahamstown, Port Alfred, Kenton on Sea, Adelaide, Fort Beaufort and Yellowwoods School.
The inaugural East Cape Shotokan-Ryu (ECSR) and Rhodes University Shotokan Karate Championships was held at Alec Mullins Hall on Saturday. The champs attracted about 220 competitors from 15 Eastern Cape karate clubs and was hosted by the Rhodes University Shotokan Karate Club and ECSR from dojos in Grahamstown, Port Alfred, Kenton on Sea, Adelaide, Fort Beaufort and Yellowwoods School.
The champs was well supported by spectators, highlighting the growing popularity of karate both nationally and internationally. The various categories were contested on three international size tatami mats equipped with computerised scoring systems. The men’s rotational team in the kumite category produced a number of action-packed encounters and also provided the audience with an excellent demonstration of the explosive power, control and focus for which karate is famous.
The match for third place was a closely fought bout with Rhodes University narrowly losing out to Hillside Goju-Kai B (Port Elizabeth). The final match was a thrilling encounter between Hillside Goju-Kai A (Port Elizabeth) and ECSR Albany (Grahamstown) with Hillside Goju-Kai A taking top honours. Special guests, Roger Adams, the head of Sport at Rhodes University, and Andrew Matatu, chair of the Rhodes Student Sport Council presented the medals to the top three teams.
Roger Adams presented the Roger Adam’s Katana floating trophy to the winning team, Hillside Goju-Kai A. The Katana Sword Trophy for the Overall Best Club was deservedly won by Sensei Clayton Thom, the head instructor for Hillside Goju-Kai. Hillside was rampant, and with a total of 765 points, completely dominated the champs. Local clubs, Albany, Makana and Rhodes gave a good account of themselves to place second, fifth and sixth respectively.
According to the event organiser, Gary Grapentin, the championship is set to become an annual event in Grahamstown. In 2011 invitations will also be extended to a number of university karate teams. Grapentin may be contacted on 073 346 0059 or at garyg@geeent.co.za for further information.
