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By Peter Akinbo.
Team FCT Abuja dominated the second edition of the ‘Strata Base National Open Senior Karate Championship’ at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
With a total of 60 medals, comprising of 16 gold, 16 silver and 28 bronze in the overall medal haul, Team FCT Abuja claimed 11 medals — five gold, one silver and five bronze — to clinch the first position at the event, which held from April 12 to 15. Team Anambra came second, winning a total of eight medals: four gold and four silver. Team Strata Base came third winning nine medals: two gold, three silver and four bronze.
Chairman South-South Zone of the Karate Federation of Nigeria, Chukwudi Dimkpa, said he had been true to his commitment to developing the sport and using it as a toll to engage young people away from destructive vices.
“This championship, the fourth in the series, asides from engaging young people meaningfully and showing them the possibilities of a life away from crime, was also aimed at showcasing talents to scouts and to serve as avenue to select and groom athletes who will represent Nigeria in future international competitions.
“Upon assumption of office as the Chairman, South-South Zone KFN and Board Member representing the South-South zone, Karate Federation of Nigeria, I made a commitment that under my watch in the South-South, we shall develop the sport to an enviable height and use it to provide a platform to better and meaningfully engage our youths.”
Dimkpa expressed satisfaction in the outcome of the tournament.
“This is reflective in the outcome of the just-concluded tournaments in far away Egypt and South Africa, where for the first time in our history, athletes from our zone won medals for the country in the sport, including the first ever Karate gold for the country.
“These achievements are the reason we are justified in our continued sponsorship of the sport. We are fulfilled and satisfied that every participating Karataker in this edition, apart from growing and showcasing their talents, winning medals and prizes, also went home with invaluable experience.”
