Kraaifontein karate kid, 11, to compete in Finland

Eleven-year-old Warren Jantjies Jr. from Scottsdene, in Kraaifontein, is set to compete in world karate championships in Finland in June.

He will compete in the boys’ 12-to-13 year-old kumite division of the Shukokai Karate World Championships, according to Kimura Shukokai International South Africa South, the body that regulates Kimura Shukokai.

One hundred and ten competitors of Kimura Shukokai International South Africa South were selected to participate in Finland. They range in age from 12 to 60.

Warren trains at Eikendal Dojo, which is part of Boland Amateur Shukokai Karate Association (Baska). Twenty one of Baska’s members were selected for the competition, which will take place from Monday June 9 to Saturday June 14.

Sensei Chris Ensil, Baska’s chief instructor and one of the national coaches for Kimura Shukokai International South Africa South, said the team members each needed to raise about R40 000 to cover entry fees, accommodation, travelling, meals and other expenses.

Warren’s father, Warren Jantjies, has started a backabuddy campaign to raise the money.

“Warren can be an ambassador in our community to show the other children what can be achieved through sport like karate, a code that is not recognised by our communities but has a huge impact on the discipline of our children,” he said.

For more information contact Mr Jantjies at 078 904 0485.