The Namibia Sports Commission (NSC) yesterday awarded the National karateka team with national colours before the journey to Harare, Zimbabwe where they will participate in the upcoming African Union Sports Council (AUSC) championship from 8 to 11 June.
The event will take place at the Harare International Conference Centre.
Speaking at the capping event, national coach Sensei Stefan van der Merwe expressed his confidence in the team’s composition, comprising both experienced and new karatekas.
He said the team has a mix of young karatekas (10 years old) and experienced athletes aged 24 years who are ready to compete and bring medals from Harare.
Van der Merwe emphasized the significance of this opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills and talents to a wider audience.
“We have covered nearly every aspect of preparation, and I am delighted with the team’s impressive progress. We are eagerly anticipating an exceptional competition in Harare,” he stated.
The enthusiastic participants shared their excitement and determination, saying they aim to bring medals home.
Team member Cherylton Garoeb was optimistic about the team’s prospects of competing and winning medals.
“Success in this championship could open doors to major tournaments for us in the future. These could then provide further opportunities to excel,” he said.
Another participant, Lize van Wyk said she had prepared extremely well for the championships.
“I am filled with excitement as this represents an incredible opportunity for me to display my talent on a grand stage. Undoubtedly, it will be a formidable and demanding competition. My primary objective for this tournament is to secure a medal,” she said
NSC Chief Administrator Freddy Mwiya expressed confidence in the team’s abilities, saying they should all aim for gold medals.
“I know the team coach and I believe the team is in good hands and good spirit. I am hoping for gold medals when the tournament ends,” he said
The championship is set to attract approximately 500 karatekas from Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Angola, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Last year’s event was held in Durban, South Africa.