The Namibia Karate Federation (NKF) Zen tournament, which was held over the weekend in Windhoek, has been branded as a success by the organisers.
The tournament saw karatekas from across the country taking part in the event that was held in Windhoek in preparation for the upcoming Karate national tournament, scheduled to take place in Ongwediva next month.
President of Kate-Zen Vernouman Endaja said almost 70 karatekas from the Hardap, //Kharas, Khomas, Omaheke and Oshana regions participated in the tournament.
“We were pleased to welcome karatekas from all across the country, except for Walvis Bay, which, unfortunately, did not send any representatives. The overwhelming turnout highlighted the tremendous growth of this sport in our nation,” he said.
Endaja also publicised that this year’s national tournament promises to be an exhilarating spectacle with an expected rise in the number of participants.
He emphasised that Saturday’s tournament played a crucial role in preparing athletes for the upcoming event.
“We have an exciting roster lined up for the national tournament this year. Today’s tournament served as an invaluable opportunity to assess the readiness of our athletes, enabling each region to select their most promising karatekas to compete in Ongwediva,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming tournament, Endaja expressed the significance of carefully selecting karatekas, as it presents a remarkable opportunity for them to participate in another prestigious karate tournament, scheduled for September.
“In September, we have another highly important tournament, considered the pinnacle of karate competitions in our country. All clubs and regions participate, making the upcoming tournament crucial, as it offers a platform for karatekas to be selected by their respective regions to compete at the national karate tournament,” he said.
Meanwhile, Freddy Mwiya, the chief administrator of the Namibia Sports Commission (NSC), commended the tournament, highlighting its inclusivity.
“Having personally witnessed the event, I am delighted to note that positive developments are on the horizon. It was pleasing to see the participation of karatekas from //Kharas, Hardap, Omaheke, Khomas and Oshana. The increasing diversity in this style of karate is a testament to its progress. We eagerly anticipate an electrifying tournament in Ongwediva next month,” Mwiya commented.
- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na