GEORGE NEWS - There was great excitement at the George Airport on Monday afternoon as parents and grandparents stood by with big smiles and balloons, eager to welcome back the Karate Zen George's athletes who had returned from Botswana.
This dojo's students had proudly represented South Africa as part of the official Karate SA national team at the Gaborone International Open Karate Championship 2025, held in Botswana from 11 to 12 October.
This national team was officially endorsed by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc).
The prestigious event featured 816 entries from eight African countries: Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi and Zambia.
The South African team delivered a commendable performance, earning 40 medals overall (10 gold, nine silver and 21 bronze). Among these, five athletes from Karate Zen George contributed six medals (one silver and five bronze), a proud reflection of their determination on the international stage.
This event marked an incredible milestone for these athletes, who not only represented their dojo and district, but also stood tall in their official South African national colours.
Their journey from local training mats to an international podium is a testament to the spirit of perseverance nurtured at Karate Zen George, under the guidance of Chief Instructor Sensei Mareon Ferndale, and all the support from the students, parents, coaches and supporters.
The team would also like to thank Karate SA for its support and for making this incredible opportunity possible.
Their story continues, and the George community could not be prouder.
Excitement at the airport as the parents and grandparents wait for their children to arrive from Botswana. Here are Nicoline Jansen, Joan and Renee van Wyngaard and Jolene Meintjies.
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