Hilma Nalupe
Carl van der Merwe of Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate Namibia was recently graded 8th Dan in Okinawa, Japan, one of the highest attainable ranks in Karate, which signifies a high level of technical skill and leadership experience.
To attain the 8th Dan, intense kata grading tests were performed in front of a panel of senior instructors of the Traditional Okinawan Karate Federation.
Van der Merwe referred to the grading as “nerve-wrecking and one of the toughest karate grading” he has ever gone through in his life, a testament of his hard work and dedication towards the sport.
His love for karate started in 1984 when he was during that time, he was working as a trainee accountant and studying to become a chartered accountant at the University of South Africa. One of his fellow trainees invited him to a karate class, and that is how it began. It has now been 41 years of continuous and dedicated training.
Van der Merwe said, “Reaching this level in karate means that I now have an even bigger responsibility towards my students to provide them with the best teaching. It is proof that Namibians can reach this level with dedication and commitment”.
The Sensei has many highlights in his life, including seeing his students evolve and still being able to train despite health setbacks.
“My brown belt grading was one of my biggest highlights because it was the final step before getting a black belt, but the real highlights are when I see my students develop – not only in karate, but in life as well,” Van der Merwe said.