KwaZulu-Natal Protea karate champion, Nyska Jagessor, is on a winning streak. Jagessor recently bagged herself a gold medal after winning at the regular KSA National Karate Championships.
The Maris Stella learner, who is just 13 years old, has set the KSA karate tournament circuit ablaze with her brilliant performances, throughout the country, since the KSA tournament season re-opened, albeit with stringent combat Covid-19 protocols in place. After her win, Jagessor said she is continuing to train vigorously and that she is looking forward to winning more gold at other upcoming tournaments. “I am always aiming high because I want to be the best. I’m working around the clock. Putting in a lot of effort and putting my mind to it. I will not settle for second best.” Protea coach and mentor, Brando Shihan, said Nyska is a natural in the field of karate, especially when it comes to tournament fighting. “I remain confident that she will sooner rather than later be crowned a karate world champion.”
Jagessor’s mother, Julie Naidoo, said that she was excited and proud of her daughter’s achievements. “I’m always happy to travel with her to any part of the country for a tournament. I always want to support her because I see how much she enjoys karate. I am very proud of my little dynamite.” Sonny Pillay, president of Karate South Africa (KSA), expressed his delight at the success of the karate protégé. “Nyska is a role model for young children aspiring to be champions.” Pillay said it was noteworthy that Nyska has an excellent work ethic and always ensures that she never misses coaching seminars with her mentor, Shihan. “That in my view is the secret to her success.” He added that KSA WKF Karate is now back on track, from a tournament perspective, with Protea champions such as Jagessor and others preparing for the forthcoming Elite and SA open championships scheduled for July 2021 in KZN. For all karate inquiries call the KSA headquarters on 082-557- 7784 or email president@karate-sa.org.
