Excitement ran high at the karatekas’ graduation ceremony which was held at Ikhwezi Community Hall in Gugulethu on Thursday 10 December. At least 18 members of Gugulethu Kyokushin Club graduated and also received certificates for good conduct.
Club instructor Stanley Chapunza described the ceremony as part of honouring the club members. “It was a very difficult year for us as we were unable to practise because of the pandemic,” he said. “The community halls were closed as dictated by Covid-19 regulations. But we resumed training after the president announced level one.”
Chapunza, who said the ceremony is an annual one, described the details of this year’s event. “There were four members promoted from white belt to orange, two from white to lilac, two from white to red, two from blue to yellow, three from orange to maroon, two from green to brown, two from light blue to dark blue, and one from maroon to light blue,” he said.
Chapunza said the club had more than 30 members from age five upwards. “The sport instils discipline, self-defence and leadership skills. We encourage people to exercise to keep their bodies fit and healthy.” He urged parents to support and encourage their children to be involved in sport and avoid being lured into less savoury activities.
Chapunza said the club is struggling, depending as it does on donations. He said the joining fee is R150 and R100 monthly fee. Anyone wishing to contribute or join the club can contact Chapunza on 072 672 5895.
