It was a case of nine carat gold for Tokon Kai Karate Club when they contested the World Championships in Las Vegas.
They wagered a great deal on achieving success from the gambling capital of the world and certainly achieved their aim in a two-day competition.
For they won no less than nine gold medals from a competition organised by Shihan K Funkoshi.
The first day was devoted to kata (forms) and, despite suffering from jetlag, the club got off to an excellent start thanks to Shelley Graham winning bronze in the individual event.
The first Tokon Kai gold came from young Anne-Marie Nicholson, 12, who enjoyed individual glory.
Anne-Marie and Shelley then teamed up with Kelly Bartlett to win the junior team competition.
Kelly and Shelley then won bronze in the mixed team event with Daniel Greenwood. The club also took bronze in the ladies team competition.
On the second day the competition was turned over to kumite (free sparring). Jon Griffiths, Lande Fourie, Rebecca Marshall, Sue Wood and Tracey Kite won gold against the international team in a nail-biting final.
Published Tuesday, December 24, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article