Athletes from across the province competed for a place in the provincial team at the Karate South Africa (KSA) Gauteng Karate Trials, including Christos Prokas.
Following a strong performance, the Crawford International Lonehill Grade 9 learner was selected to represent Gauteng at the upcoming National and Elite Karate Championship, in both kata and kumite.
Read more: Young fighter impresses at local karate tournament
Reflecting on the trials, Prokas explained that the competition tested both his skill and determination. “I competed about two weeks ago, on a Sunday, at the Gauteng trials for Karate South Africa. My main category is kata, which is a series of moves that have a specific purpose. That’s what I mainly focus on.”
He also competed in kumite, the sparring division, where competitors face each other in controlled combat. “In sparring, there were six competitors in our category, which meant we automatically progressed through to the next round. That’s how I qualified for the Gauteng team that will compete in Durban.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Christos Prokas explains his experience at the recent trials and his preparation for the upcoming National and Elite Karate Championship in Durban, where he will represent Gauteng in both kata and kumite. Video: Ayanda Ntshingila #Fourways #Karate #kumite ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
Christos admitted that being selected for the team came as a surprise. “It was a shock, because I wasn’t expecting to make the team, but when I found out I had been selected, I was really happy to be part of the Gauteng squad.”
Also read: Fourways warrior strikes gold on the karate world stage
With the championship set to take place in two weeks, he has already begun preparing through regular squad training sessions. “We have squad training every second Saturday with the kata coaches. It helps us improve on the areas we’ve been struggling with, while also training with our dojo heads.”
Beyond medals and titles, Christos says the sport has played an important role in his personal development. “Karate gave me the power to realise that not everyone’s words have an effect on you. One comment can’t change your whole life.”
He encourages other young people interested in martial arts to stay committed to their goals.
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Nelson Kgarose
www.citizen.co.za
