3 days ago
Karate kid kicks towards Tokyo dream
Nathan Gavin (12) is quickly making a name for himself in the world of karate. Training at Dorfman Karate in Parktown North, Nathan has already secured 13 medals at national level. His latest achievements came at the Junior South African Championships, where he was recognised as the top male karateka.
'I've trained with Malcolm [Dorfman] Sensei since I was six,' Nathan shared. 'Karate challenges me, but that's what I love about it. It pushes me physically and mentally.'
Read more: Dorfman Karate dominates KWF SA Junior Championship
He is now preparing to represent South Africa at the Kyokushin World Federation (KWF) World Championships in Tokyo in 2025, a dream he has been chasing since the age of eight. His training schedule includes two-hour sessions, three times a week, but it is the time spent mentally rehearsing his katas that truly keeps him sharp.
'Before bed, I go through all the katas in my head, step by step, making sure my form is right,' he explained. 'It helps me stay focussed.'
Although this will be his first international competition, Nathan is not holding back. His goal is to gain valuable experience and, if all goes well, win gold for kata, which he believes is his strongest event.
To help fund his journey to Tokyo, Nathan has launched a campaign through BackaBuddy .
'I want to become a sensei one day and pass on everything I have learnt. Karate has given me so much, and I want to give that back.'
From his first karate class at six, to the upcoming world stage in Japan, Nathan's journey is one of discipline, drive, and quiet determination.
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