Nine medals for Motueka karate kids
Malte Brandsch,Leo Bensemann, Mia Price, Bryan Loubser and Tai Bennett, together with Niya Tākao and Riley Godsiff (not pictured), excelled at the Top of the South Seido karate tournament last month. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
SUPPLIED CONTENT
Seven young students from Motueka Dojo travelled to Blenheim last month to take part in the Seido Karate Junior/Teen Top of the South Tournament – returning with an impressive haul of nine medals and a deepened sense of connection and friendship.
The event, hosted by the Blenheim Seido Karate Dojo, focused on the theme of “Kizuna” – a Japanese word meaning bonds of friendship – highlighting the importance of building positive relationships alongside martial arts training.
The Motueka students, aged nine to 16, competed in Kata (forms), Kumite (sparring), and Shiai divisions, showing strong technique, discipline, and spirit. Their efforts earned multiple podium finishes and the respect of their fellow karateka. Results included:
• Niyah Tākao (1st Kyu, age 16) – 1st in Kata and 1st in Kumite
• Leo Bensemann (8th Kyu, age 9) – 1st in Kata, 3rd in Shiai
• Mia Price (White belt, age 12) – 1st in Kata, 3rd in Shiai
• Tai Bennett (White belt, age 13) – 2nd in Kata, 2nd in Shiai
• Bryan Loubser (White belt, age 13) – 1st in Shiai
• Malte Brandsch (8th Kyu, age 12) competed strongly in Kata.
• Riley Godsiff (White belt, age 11) competed strongly in Kata and Shiai, demonstrating commitment and a great attitude.
Niyah Tākao, an outstanding young leader within the group, impressed with her calm focus and strong kata, which can be viewed on the Motueka Dojo Facebook page.
The trip was made possible with the support of whānau, instructors, and senior students, who helped organise and encourage the young competitors.
“All instructors and adult students are very proud of the efforts and achievements of these young karateka,” says children’s instructor Jenny Bolwell. “They showed great spirit, supported one another, and truly embraced the theme of Kizuna – building friendships through shared experience.”
The group welcomes beginner children to classes on Thursdays at 4:30 pm. “We are fortunate to have a world-class dojo and instructors right here in Motueka, offering traditional martial arts training in a supportive environment.”