The Namibia Karate Federations (NKF) on Saturday held national karate trials to select a group of karatekas to compete in the upcoming Region 5 championship in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, later this year.

The trials were held at the Unam main campus in the capital. 

According to the organisers, the event attracted more than 100 participants. The trials served as qualifiers for the upcoming tournament set for 8-11 June this year.

Leonardo Martin from NKF said he is satisfied with the turnout, as karatekas flocked to the Unam main campus hall to fight for places in the team.

“It was a huge turnout, and we are so happy with the number of participants. We had about 120 athletes who took part in the trials – and most of them did well during the trials,” he said.

He added they hope to bring gold medals home from the event later this year and should, thus, ensure they select the best team possible. 

“The standards were very high during this event – all athletes brought their A-game, and we are confident that we are going to select the best possible team that will compete at that stage.” 

The announcement of the final squad will be made on Wednesday.

- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na