Zanshin Shito-Ryu athletes shine at 2025 KSA Awards

There was a strong sense of pride and purpose in the air when athletes and coaches from Kimberley’s Zanshin Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Academy and the Karate Association of the Northern Cape were honoured at the 2025 Karate South Africa (KSA) Protea and KSA Awards.

The prestigious event celebrated exceptional performances by South Africa’s top karatekas on national and international stages – but the prevailing mood among the Northern Cape delegation was one of humility and heartfelt appreciation.

“Only one word comes to mind … and that is GRATEFUL,” said an emotional Shihan Peter Stegmann, head of Zanshin and a National Coach for Karate South Africa. “Working and pushing through rainy and sunny ‘weather’ towards that dream, that goal that is imprinted in the back of your head … sometimes screaming at you. I am so, so proud of my athletes for their hard work and dedication. Through great and sometimes not-so-great performances, you still show up and do the work. Trusting the process.”

Four of Stegmann’s athletes received top honours for their achievements over the past year, including national representation and medal-winning performances: Kamogelo Makinta was awarded KSA National Colours for representing South Africa at the 2025 AUSC Region Championships in Durban.

• Alwyn Smit earned KSA National Colours for his silver-medal performance at the 2024 Commonwealth Cup Championship, also in Durban.

• Mïcke Strydom received both KSA National Colours (for the Commonwealth Cup) and Protea Colours (for AUSC Regionals), capping off her achievements with a bronze medal.

• Markus Becker, although absent from the ceremony, was recognised for his gold medal at the Commonwealth Cup as a KSA National athlete.

Beyond the medals and accolades, Stegmann emphasised the broader support systems that make success possible. “I want to thank the parents of the athletes for your dedication and support towards your child’s karate journey,” he said.

He also extended deep appreciation to the KSA leadership: “A big shout out to Sonny Pillay, Hanshi, and the KSA Executive for all the opportunities you create for our athletes,” he said. “And to Renshi Brando Pillay – thank you for your dedication, hard work and sacrifices to improve our athletes. It is most of the time a thankless job, and a lot you do happens behind the scenes. Your efforts are seen and immensely appreciated.”

Corporate support, too, played a vital role. “A massive thanks to Louis Vermeulen from New Vaal Motors and John-Henry Zeelie from Pick n Pay Rhodesdene in Kimberley,” said Stegmann. “Without your support and you gentlemen buying into our dojo's dreams and goals, this road would be much more difficult.”

Stegmann was also among the honourees, recognised for his contribution as a National Coach. “I was privileged to be recognised for my work,” he said. “Thank you to Renshi Brando Pillay and Shihan Michael Roetz for putting your trust in me to support and develop our country’s athletes for the international stage. The recognition is much appreciated.”

Reflecting on the event, Stegmann praised the atmosphere and organisation. “The 2025 KSA Awards were fantastic – a relaxed vibe, good music, lovely food and a great presentation of the awards. You made the awardees feel super special,” he said. “What made the event even more meaningful was the presence of SASCOC President Mr Barry Hendricks. Thank you very much.”

As the applause faded and the night wound down, Stegmann offered a message that summed up the team’s journey so far – and what still lies ahead: “Keep chasing your dreams and goals.”

The achievements of Zanshin’s athletes are a credit to their dojo, their province, and the wider karate community – a reminder of what is possible when talent is nurtured through hard work, belief, and collective support.