30-07-2025
Parkrand dojo makes presence known in Sweden
Armed with traditional Goju Ryu weapons and dressed in crisp gis, 12 athletes from Goju Karate Academy in Parkrand boarded a plane to Malmö, Sweden, to compete in the 13th annual World Union of Karate Federations (WUKF) World Championships.
Wearing the colours of Martial Arts South Africa, the karateka took to the world stage from July 8 to 13, testing their skill and discipline against athletes from 21 top international federations.
ALSO READ: Karateka hold their own at all-styles challenge
'From the onset, the competition was tough,' said fifth Dan instructor, sensei Marius Madgwick.
'We had put in hours of training, sharpened our skills and polished our katas — all to give the participants the confidence to step onto the mats.
'Participation in world-class tournaments like this is not only about standing on the podium. If you don't learn from the experience, you cannot grow.'
Their dedication in the dojo paid off. The team brought home an impressive 15 medals from a total of 31 earned by the South African delegation, which helped secure an overall eighth-place ranking.
'We are incredibly proud of our athletes' performance,' said fourth Dan instructor Tarryn Madgwick.
'Our dojo brought home four gold, six silver and five bronze medals. The participants shone throughout the tournament, showing courage and embodying the core principles of karate.'
Senseis Yolandi Coertze and Marius Madgwick were also active on the tatami, officiating rounds of kata, kumite and kobudo. Both were evaluated on their knowledge and performance as judges, and received international recognition.
At the end of the tournament, Tarryn was promoted to Level A judge and Yolandi to Level B.
'It was a truly memorable experience,' said Tarryn. 'We are beyond proud of everyone's achievements.'
ALSO READ: Dojo celebrates karateka's achievements
