02 Mar 2025

Katlo Simane and Sam Kedisang kept spectators on their feet when they performed the individual male kata during the Botswana Karate Association junior and under-21 national team selection in Gaborone yesterday.

The two teammates from Thebephatshwa Karate Academy gave it their all. They hugged and sobbed after their sterling performance, with Katlo who has been dominated by Sam throughout their career, turning the table this time around and getting crowned the under-12 individual kata champion.

Katlo said in an interview that he had mixed emotions, given that Sam was his 'sensei' and was looking up to him as a role model.

“To be honest he has always had an upper hand over me, and realising that I will be in the final with him, deep down I knew I would settle for a silver medal,” he said.

He, however, said the results had made him realise that nothing was impossible, adding that he would continue to work hard so that he could reach his ultimate goal in the sport.

On the other hand, Sam said his teammate was good in speed and some of the skills he applied were much better than his.

“I don't know how I feel, but it is not a good thing to be beaten by your student. But at the end of the day we are in the same team,” he said.

Their coach Centy Kgosikoma was happy with her karatekas, saying their performance showed that they were well trained. Kgosikoma was also satisfied about how she had prepared the team, hence the spectacular performance.

In the female individual kata, Lerang Phillip was crowned the champion, position two went to Tapiwa Dambe, while position three went to Palema Moleofe.

The under-14 male individual kata championship was won by Elliot Thobo, followed by Daniel Daniel, while Ray Mokgothu scooped position three. ENDS