Curro Krugersdorp Grade 3 learner earns national colours in karate

24 October 2025

At just nine years old, Grade 3 learner Karli Labram from Curro Krugersdorp Primary School has achieved a milestone few reach so early. After joining the Roodepoort Karate Centre in February 2024, Karli’s progress has been rapid and impressive. Earlier this year she competed at the Karate Provincials, where she qualified to represent her region at the South African Japan Karate Association (SA JKA) National Championships, held at Ellis Park Indoor Events Arena.

 

 

National recognition in kata and kumite

The SA JKA Nationals bring together the country’s best young martial artists under the officially registered South African branch of the Japan Karate Association. Karli earned her National Colours for both kata and kumite, which is a remarkable accomplishment for an athlete her age.

‘Karli always shows up with a smile on her face and gives it everything she’s got,’ said her mother, Jeniffer Labram. ‘We’re incredibly proud of her and all that she’s achieved.’

 

 

Passion and practice behind the success

Karli’s love for karate extends beyond the dojo. She often practises at home, in public spaces, and even while sitting down! It is apparently this ‘genuine enthusiasm’ that inspires everyone who sees her. Her school added, ‘We’re incredibly proud of her and all that she’s achieved.’

Her achievements continue to inspire her peers at Curro Krugersdorp and demonstrate what consistent effort can achieve, even at a young age.