In an effort to generate funds to buy karate equipment the Ku Yu Kai Karate club organised a special tournament on Saturday 1 October.
The tournament was held at Johnson Ngwevela Hall in Langa.
At least 63 participants took part in the event.
The tournament, named Kuyu Kai Western Cape Challenge, pitted members of the club against their counterparts from Sai Wakaai from Langa, with winners walking away with medals.
Event organiser and founder of Ku Yu Kai club, which is based in Khayelitsha, Monwabisi Njomba said they felt there was a need to organise such an event to keep the children busy and to also generate some funds for the club.
He said members are struggling to participate in bigger events due to lack of funds.
“Many of our karateka in the townships left karate because of lack of funds. We don’t have sponsors to support us.
“If there’s a national tournament or international tournament we have to dig deep into our pockets if we want to participate. No one is paying for us,” said Njomba.
He said some of the money made during the event would be used to pay for the facilities they use to host the events and training.
“We also need to buy gloves, belts, karate suits, mats etc.
“Most of the parents in our communities are unemployed and can’t afford to buy all the equipment for their children,” stated Njomba.
Njomba said sport promotes healthy living and instills discipline among athletes.
One of the winners Licebo Manenza said the sport helped him to stay fit and healthy. His biggest wish is to represent the country on a bigger stage.