The Karate Championships were held from 7 to 11 September 2022 and Khitsane won the gold medal in his category for the championship – which for him was the main goal to be achieved. He also bagged another gold and silver medal for the team's event. He says to him karate is not a hobby but it has become his life. This achievement to him is another source of motivation and confidence to take part in more international competitions. “Right now, I do not plan to stop doing karate because it brings so much joy to my life.” 

When he is not at school or at karate practice, he plays hockey, he's gaming or listening to music. He explains that he went to karate during pre-school because he had a lot of energy and his teachers wanted to put it into something positive.  

Khitsane’s coach from Harrismith JKA Karate, Charlene Stopforth, says this win is amazing – it has also inspired her to keep on coaching more people that are interested in karate. “This has also motivated me to try my hardest to touch more people’s lives through karate because, like Khitsane said, karate is our life,” she adds. Stopforth adds that karate has taught her so much discipline and respect, and that is what she is always trying to pass on to the next generation through this sport. “I am truly proud of him, he has so much respect and family values – you would not say he is a 14-year-old.”

Khitsane’s mother, Thapelo Mthetho, says although they are very proud of how amazing he is doing in karate, they feel like in South Africa the sport isn’t really recognised. She also reflected back on how difficult it was to raise funds for him to attend the Commonwealth Championships, however, she is grateful to the people who have helped with donations to get Khitsane where he is today. She concluded that she will always support her son through this sport for as long as he is happy.

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