28 Mar 2022

Ofentse Bakwadi was crowned senior men individual kata champion during the Botswana Kofukan Federation (BKF) Championship in Gaborone on Saturday.

Bakwadi executed Gojū-shi-ho-Kata, displaying aggression and his flawless stance won him more points than his competitor, Wamorena Metswi who settled for a silver medal.

Tlotlang Ponatshego and Boemo Ramasimong who were also a marvel to watch both won bronze medal.

Bakwadi said in an interview that he was happy with his performance considering they had not been active due to COVID-19.

He said he was happy that most of the young karateka who pushed him to work were in good shape.

“We are now gaining momentum, there is Zone VI, Africa Championships and Commonwealth Games coming up. I started preparations beginning of the year and my performance has given me hope,” he said.

Bakwadi said he was aware that Batswana yearned to see him win a gold medal on international stages and that, he intended to do this year.

In under 14 Kumite male 45kg, Tebo Modisanyane, was crowned the champion, Resaobaka Phuduhudu won silver and Waone Kgorotlhe and Speneloge Masisiko came third.

Centy Kgosikoma won gold in Kata individual senior female followed by Lame Hetanang with silver, Lentle Tanyala and Entle Ngaugwa both won bronze.

BKF chairperson, Orchard Kgosietsile said the athletes who took part in the tournament earned points that would be used for national team selection.

He said like all sporting codes, they were affected by COVID-19 pandemic and athletes had not been training properly.

“We lost momentum however, this is our third tournament this year so, we are getting there,” stated Kgosietsile. ENDS