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Caroline Magenga Sports Reporter
TOP South African karateka Shihan Elias Jacobs says he is impressed by the level of skill and potential in Zimbabwe. Jacobs, who is a 7th Dan (black belt), continental A class referee and continental Kata judge, arrived in Harare yesterday for a four-day training and grading programme for junior and senior karatekas.

He said Zimbabwe and South Africa share a lot in common.
“This is my first time in Zimbabwe and I am very impressed with the level of skill and potential Zimbabwe has to offer,” said Jacobs.
“While South Africa is a bit ahead, in terms of growth, you will notice that our countries share a lot in common in that we are facing the same challenges to do with resources and support.

“You will find karate continues to suffer stunted growth because of lack of financial resources, the athletes are not exposed to a lot of challenges and that is why our performance at world tournaments remains poor.

“You can be the best fighter in your country but if you keep fighting the same local opponents you stagnant yourself, our fighters should take part in a lot of regional and international tournaments so that they develop and grow.

“It would even help if some could travel to the birth place of karate, Japan, just to get exposure and I am sure you would find that performance, even at world level tournaments, would improve.”

The grading process marks the first act of the Harare Ryokshin Kan headquarters since their affiliation to the style.
The association’s secretary-general, Joseph Sagwati, bemoaned the lack of sponsorship.

“As an affiliate of the Ryokshin Kan we are honoured to be hosting Shihan Elias Jacobs.
“Karate could have reached greater heights locally if we had the same support the corporate world shows other sporting disciples like football or rugby,” said Sagwati.