SHOUTS of kiai reverberated around the arena as more than 300 young karateka took part in a weekend tournament.
The state-level event at 3K Complex in Subang Jaya, Selangor, was organised by Kelab Karate Pahlawan and Puvan Karate Academy, sanctioned by the Malaysian Hayashi-ha Karate Federation.
It brought together primary and secondary students from 50 schools across Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang.
Ex-national coach, South-East Asian (SEA) Games gold medallist and organiser Puvaneswaran Ramasamy said it was designed to give grassroots athletes their first taste of a proper competition.
“For many of them, it’s the first step to learning discipline, respect and performing under pressure,” said the karate academy founder.
Winners of a kata competition category with their prizes. — Photos: SAMUEL ONG/The Star
He said it would help build a pathway to the Malaysia Games (Sukma) and international tournaments.
Puvaneswaran said the competition represented his passion for the sport.
“These children inspire me every day. I’m still learning from them,” he added.
The tournament featured two disciplines – kata (choreographed movements) and kumite (sparring), with matches drawing loud cheers from teammates and parents.
Judges held up red and blue flags to signal points, while referees and instructors kept a close eye on the karateka.
Standout performer Nur Khalisha Mohamad Haniff, 14, from SK Convent Sentul, bagged the gold in the Female Cadet Kata (14-15 years) category.
“I took up karate when I was eight years old after watching a demonstration at school,” she said.
“It’s not easy juggling my studies and training, but I love the sport so I train three times a week.
The kumite (sparring) competition. — SAMUEL ONG/The Star
“Never give up on your goals,” said Nur Khalisha.
Another promising karateka, Jaykrishaan, 14, from SMK Kepong Baru, who won the gold medal in the Male Cadet Kata (14-15 years) category said, “My dream is to represent Malaysia and win our first Olympic gold in karate.
“I broke my nose in a tournament in May, but injuries are part of the sport.
“My passion keeps me going,” he said.
