MBALI Nkambule has jetted off to Japan to represent Mzansi in a karate tournament.
The 34-year-old from Ulundi, northern KZN, is hopeful she will excel in the tournament so that everyone can start recognising karate - like other sporting codes.
She left Mzansi on Wednesday, 15 November, to participate in the 13th World Tournament where she will be competing in the International Friendship Elite Karate Championship from 16 to 19 November. In her division, there will be 25 fighters of which eight are female.
She said: “It has not been an easy journey, but we managed to prepare ourselves for the tournament. I'm hopeful that I'll do well.”
Mbali said training preparations had to change completely.
“I did a 5km run and did weights in the afternoon. I had to go and do karate, which helped me and pushed me to where I am today with my fitness,” she said.
Mbali started playing karate in 2012 and she's now a brown belt holder.
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She said she joined karate because it's not just a sport but a martial art as well.
“It teaches me many things. You learn and apply skills that help you not only realise what you’re capable of but also gives a sense of pride from knowing what you can accomplish in life,” said Mbali.
Mbali said that she has managed to maintain a healthy lifestyle and discipline.
“It's a life-changing sport even though it's not that supported in Mzansi, but learning self-defence on its own builds confidence,” said Mbali.
She also thanked the Ulundi Local Municipality for sponsoring her trip.
“I want to thank my local municipality for paying for my travel cost and for the support they've been giving me,” said Mbali.
Ulundi Mayor Wilson Ntshangase said they encourage more people to engage in different sports so that they can keep away from bad behaviour.
“We're very proud as Ulundi. That's why we decided to help our pride so that she'll continue putting Ulundi on the map,” she said.
