One of Namibia’s top karateka’s Sensei Suzell Pronk won a bronze medal at the highly competitive African Beach Games in Tunisia on Monday. 

It was the second edition of the tournament, which commenced on Friday, 23 June and will conclude on 30 June in the beautiful resort city of Hammamet. 

Pronk is one of two Namibian athletes who competed in the event, and her outstanding performance saw her claim the prestigious
bronze medal after defeating a Senegalese challenger.

In an exclusive interview with this
publication, Pronk shared her reflections on the challenging competition, acknowledging its high level of competitiveness. 

“Although I lost in the semi-finals to an Algerian opponent, who eventually emerged as the champion, I managed to win the bronze medal match against Senegal. The competition was particularly demanding, especially when facing opponents from North African countries. Consequently, I am thrilled with my performance, having surpassed some of these formidable nations,” she said.

Pronk also mentioned encountering a few challenges during the tournament but successfully navigating through them. 

Looking ahead, she has now set her sights on the upcoming tournaments, namely the World Beach Games in Bali and the Karate Continental Championship in Morocco, scheduled for
August. 

“Performing on the sandy terrain was an unfamiliar experience for us. I am eagerly anticipating these upcoming events and remain determined to give my best performance before advancing to the next competition,” she said.

Meanwhile, President of Namibia Karate Federation Sensei Llewellyn Manale expressed pride and admiration for Pronk’s outstanding achievement, emphasising her ability to overcome formidable odds. 

Looking at the tough opponents from various countries that Pronk faced, the president said her bronze medal victory is a tremendous achievement.

“We eagerly await the future, knowing that she will continue to make us proud as she competes on the international stage,” Manale
said. - mkambukwe@nepc.com.na