By Mohammed Adekola
No fewer than 36 Karateists participated in the 2024 Lagos State Karate Association trials held recently at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, Yaba, Lagos.
The trials featured both male and female karateists in Kata and Kumite which are used to measure the level of their preparation for the upcoming Senior Strata Base Karate Championship. The event would also be used to select the best amongst them for the Championship in Rivers State and other subsequent tournaments.
According to the Lagos State Karate’s Coach, Shoyoye Shola Sounaka, the essence of the trials is to form a formidable team and prepare karateists for the upcoming Senior Strata Base Karate Championship.
He said Lagos State is coming up with new faces (Boys and Girls) in the martial arts, adding that the trials have given more confidence to the athletes and a level playing field to showcase their skills in the art.
One of the participants, Tomiwa Ayomide Babarinde who grabbed a gold medal in the Kumite 65kg category, said it is the beginning of a new dawn and he wants to make the state proud as well as flying the county’s colours at the national and international competitions.
Another winner in the 67kg, Owoyemi Precious attributed her sterling performance as a beginner to her resilience, dedication and unwavering support from the coaches.
Donlyn Vehenna Divine +70kg, Okeowo Balikis +65kg, and Abbey Taiwo also emerged winners in their different weight categories.
