Mwiya Jr comes closest to Commonwealth podium

Karate
Mariud Ngula
  • 1 Hour Ago

Namibia’s Freddy Mwiya Jr led the country’s four-member team at the Commonwealth Karate Elite Championships in Scotland last weekend, narrowly missing out on a bronze medal to finish fifth out of 10 competitors in his division.

Competing in the men’s senior kumite +84kg division, Mwiya Jr contested two bouts at the Glasgow International Arena. He first went up against Australia’s Ricardo Hadfield in a bout that ended level before a 3-1 decision went in favour of the Australian.

Hadfield went on to claim silver in the division after losing to Scotland’s Greg Anderson in the final.

Mwiya Jr remained in contention for bronze before falling 2-0 to Scotland’s Alasdair Grantham.


Gratitude

Nonetheless, the Namibian took the defeat on the chin and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the Commonwealth event.

“Although I was hoping for a higher placing, I’m grateful for the experience and everything I’ve learned along the way. Thank you all for your support. Oss!” said Mwiya Jr.

Following closely behind Mwiya Jr in the Namibian contingent was Keanu Stuurman, who placed seventh out of 22 competitors in the men’s senior kata +16 years division.

Phillip van Antwerpen placed eighth out of 13 competitors in his men’s senior kumite division. Julio Mwiya also finished eighth in senior kumite, competing in a 15-player field.

The team was accompanied by head coach Warren de Jager and assistant coach Nathan Goliath.

– mariud@nsh.com.na