The international competition is organised by the International University Sports Federation for student-athletes from universities around the world. The championships are hosted in different countries every year, and this year’s event was held in Brazil.

UFS student Karabo Khanye competed in karate, a combat sport featured at the championships. “I was chosen by UFS to represent them, as well as South Africa, in karate,” he said.

Karabo Khanye at the FISU World University Championships. Photo: ufs.ac.za

He also competed in 2022, representing the Free State. “I’ve represented the Free State before, but representing UFS is a different story because it’s a different community. Representing the institution is a new experience for me and the support I got was amazing.”

Participants are selected for either team or individual events. “So, I was chosen for the team events. Team events consist of five fighters. Three of the five should win to go to the next stage. Unfortunately, we lost in the knockout stages.”

Although Khanye’s team did not reach the finals, he remained proud of himself and his performance. He believed consistency in competing will be key to improving his chances of winning a medal in future world stage competitions.

Championships are often filled with intense moments and disappointments, which can take a toll on an athlete’s mental strength and resilience. “There was a point where I just wanted to like quit and give up because as an athlete you compete and compete, but when you don’t produce the results you want, then you start feeling like you just want to give up.”

Fortunately for Khanye, he had the support of his coach, helping him remain positive and focused despite the challenges he faced. “When I felt like giving up, I called my coach, Charlene Stopforth, and told her that I didn’t perform well. She reminded me that we all want to win, but just because we didn’t do as well as we hoped it doesn’t mean we should give up. It’s not the end of the world.”

Khanye has set his sights on the 2028 Olympics. He says he will do everything within his ability to earn selection to represent South Africa, not only by competing on the world stage but also by showcasing the talent that the country has in karate.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa

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