Johannesburg – A number of News24 users have come forward to help three young karatekas (practitioners of karate) from Eldorado Park in Gauteng realise their dream of representing South Africa in a tournament in Germany.
Renaldo Kok, 24, Chesline Petersen, 21, and Denzelle Bloem, 17, had qualified to participate in the 5th Dojo World Championships, but their sponsor had just pulled out.
- Read more: Joburg karate kids beg for funds to get to world championships
"It is very hard knowing that we have been chosen to go to Germany, but knowing that it [might] not take place due to the fact that we as a team don't have the funds," Petersen said, describing the team's frustration at having to look for another sponsor in time for the tournament later this year.
The trio, who train at the Shukokai karate academy, have been doing karate for more than 12 years and say they have had to miss a number of previous tournaments because of a lack of funding.
However, News24 readers, such as Kenric Wood, have offered to help fund the trio's trip to Germany.
"This is an experience of a lifetime and I am willing to help out where I can. It would be excellent for young people to experience something like this," he said.
Overwhelming response
Another reader, Jeanne Derwort said she needed to help the trio in any way she could as karate was a sport close to her heart.
"My sister used to do karate and she went far with it. I know how much work it is and it would be horrible for them not to go and compete. I would definitely help out where I can," she said.
Yusuf Dockrat from Sedgars sports in Vereeniging said he believed helping the trio was the right thing to do to support young talent.
"I am in the sports business and I earn money from sports. We obviously help people where we can. If there is talent, then it is only the right thing to do."
The trio needs to put down a deposit of R10 000 per person by May 23; and the trip will cost them R25 000 each overall.
Shukokai karate academy's Nicole Koen said they were already receiving responses from the public.
"Having the biggest sponsor pull out on you two weeks before the first payment was very painful. I feel once again that we have good people in South Africa. Irrespective of what anyone can say about our people, we are overwhelmed with the response."
- For others who wish to help, you can e-mail Koen at chibokai@mtnloaded.co.za or e-mail News24 at feedback@news24.com and we'll send your details onto her.