KNYSNA NEWS - Grade 3 Knysna Primary learner Harry Leiar has been crowned South Africa's individual kata champion after winning gold at the recent MASA-WUKF South African Nationals and Afro-Asian Open Championships, earning selection to represent the country at the World Championships in Transylvania, Romania, from 22 to 26 July.
The eight-year-old karateka delivered an outstanding performance at the championships held in Gqeberha from 29 April to 3 May, where he competed as part of the Western Cape provincial team.
Leiar also competed in individual kumite and team kata, helping his team secure a bronze medal alongside Braelan Mayer and Joseph Meiring from Plettenberg Bay.
His achievement follows a successful journey through club and provincial competitions with the Knysna-Plett Dojo. Adding to his success, the latest national rankings have placed Leiar as the country's top-ranked competitor in his age category.
He currently leads the standings with 427 points, ahead of fellow dojo member Braelan Mayer on 397 points.
Knysna-Plett Dojo senseis John and Natasha Peach praised the club's competitors for their performances at the tournament.
"We are particularly proud of all 12 competitors from our club who competed at their first WUKF South African Nationals. To bring home several medals and have a national champion in individual kata is a tremendous achievement," they said.
The young champion is currently seeking sponsorship to assist with travel and competition costs for the international competition.
For any inquiries, contact John Peach on 084 717 2777.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
