Motueka’s young Seido karate competitors returned with a haul of medals after a strong showing at the recent Junior Top of the South Tournament in Nelson.
The local competitors, aged 10 to14, spent months preparing for the event, held at Nelson Girls College on 19 September.
Advanced children’s class instructor Jenny Bolwell says that the young athletes trained consistently and with great focus.
“On the day, they demonstrated a high standard of skill, focus and support for one another. They all performed strongly and came back with lots of medals. After the tournament they all said it was great fun, a good challenge and they would do it again.”
Among the standouts was Maia Price, 13, who earned third place in kata. Maia says the tournament was a good opportunity to catch up with old friends and push herself outside her comfort zone.
Theo Fraser, 10, also placed third in kata and says that he was inspired by watching the young black belts compete.
Other results included Riley Godsiff, who earned second place in kata and shiai, Bryan Loubser, who won shiai, Tai Bennett, who placed third in kata, and Taane Mills, who finished third in shiai. Leo Bensemann also performed strongly in his events.
Jenny says that Seido Karate's worldwide network means Motueka students can train and compete at affiliated dojos as they travel overseas in the future.
“We are very fortunate here in Motueka to have a world class dojo at the recreation centre and teachers with up to 45 years of experience,” she says. “Our standard here in Motueka is high.”
Seido Karate offers 10 classes per week in Motueka, with more than 40 students in total.
Young people interested in trying the discipline are welcome at the beginner children's class, held every Thursday at 4.30pm at the Motueka Recreation Centre.
