Matric scholar Katlego might have given up karate once, but she’s made a marvellous comeback that has offered her the chance to take part in the World Goju Ryu Karate Championships in Austria—her first time overseas!
Randburg, South Africa (22 May 2024)—At the tender age of 18, Katlego Dlamini is about to embark on her greatest adventure – jetting off to take part in the 7th World Goju Ryu Karate Championship in Austria. Thanks to her school, she is armed with the right support to compete during such an important time for her schooling career.
This Grade 12 scholar from SPARK Randburg High has been selected to represent South Africa at the karate championship which takes place from September 2 to 8. This will also be her first time travelling outside South Africa.
More than 1000 athletes, judges, and officials from 30 nations will take part in the competition which is held in Fürstenfeld and Bad Loipersdorf in the picturesque landscapes of Steyr, Austria.
Katlego started her karate training at age 15, but later quit, only to return to the sport a year later. Two years later sees her at the top of her sport and chosen to represent her country.
She trains at the OGKK Randburg Karate centre where Sensei Nigel and Sensei Wisdom oversee her preparations. Her karate endeavours are also backed by her school. Katlego says SPARK has helped her find her confidence as well as boost her competitiveness and open-mindedness.
Monki Mohlakoana, assistant principal of SPARK Randburg High says the school is receiving such exciting news with great pride and joy. “Katlego Dlamini’s achievement is a remarkable honour for both the scholar and the school. We are very excited for her and eagerly anticipating Katlego’s participation in the championships.”
“Exercise and physical education are highly valued at SPARK. We firmly believe that a strong body contributes to a strong mind, and we encourage our scholars to engage in physical education activities,” she says.
As she is doing her matric year, Katlego is fully aware that she needs to keep up to date with her studies, even when she is in Austria for the karate championship.
“I follow a strict timetable to manage my time. It’s not an easy task to do, but if you are dedicated you can do it,” says Katlego. Proud mom Thokozile Ndlovu said the school has given her daughter the necessary support which allows her to juggle both school and karate. “I am very proud of her, she worked very hard to be where she is today.”
Monki says the school’s blended learning model allows for Katlego to log into lessons or recap lessons wherever she is in the world and at her convenience.
“Katlego will receive resources and support to assist her in keeping up with her schoolwork while in Austria. We will arrange for online lessons for her to participate in and provide access to subject materials and resources to ensure she stays on track with her studies.”
by 