11th Indian Ocean Islands Games   |26 July 2023

Some of the karatekas during a training session (Photo: Neil Sirame)

Karatekas continue intense training ahead of IOIG

In preparation for the 11th Indian Ocean Islands Games in Madagascar scheduled for August 23 to September 3, the 27 members of the karate national selection are following training sessions with Malagasy coach Shihan Miora Razafindrakoto at the Plaisance community centre.

Speaking to Sports NATION, Seychelles Karate Federation (SKF) chairman Donald Célestine said for the Indian Ocean Islands Games (IOIG), a team consist of 45 persons  ̵  18 female karatekas, 20 male karatekas and seven officials.

“We were instructed to provide a team of 45 but unfortunately in Seychelles we do not have this number of fighters. We started our pre-selection training well on January 7, but as we get nearer to the Games the number of karatekas has reduced. Before the karatekas trained three days per week but now they are training five times per week and we are grateful to coach Razafindrakoto for taking the training to the next level,” said Mr Célestine.

The national squad is currently made up of five female karatekas, namely Gretel Valentin, Shujatha Chettiar, Stephanie De Létourdie, Lindy Bédier and Verna Lesperance. The male team consist of 17 karatekas: Bernard Thérésine, Philip Agathine, Philibert Agathine, Martin Cedras, Andy Allisop, David Boniface, Jahvis Bernard, Wayne Louise, Seddrick Fanny Al Abdulla, Selwyn Payet, Xavier Jules, Stevie Alcindor, Rueldo Figaro, Julio Beaudouin, Abraham Thayaludu, Neo Hoareau and Johaness Robert.

Mr Célestine also mentioned that the selected group is serious and consistent with their training and added that attendance is strictly monitored.

He added that they are focusing on the World Karate Federation (WKF) amended regulations which will be applied during the 11th IOIG in Madagascar and this is why coach Razafindrakoto is back in the country to continue her sessions.

“We have lots of talents but some rules have changed and the karatekas must be ready to compete. Coach Razafindrakoto is also teaching those who are weak in techniques,” mentioned Mr Celestine.

The local karate boss believes his karatekas will get good results at the IOIG. “I believe this group will win at least eight medals, but things could vary depending on the situation in Madagascar,” said Mr Celestine.

Back in June, Malagasy coach Razafindrakoto hosted a week-long seminar to get the karatekas acquainted with the new rules and regulations amended by the World Karate Federation. Shihan Miora Razafindrakoto returned to the country on July 21 to continue training the national selection.

Speaking to sports NATION, coach Razafindrakoto said she is back to follow up on what they had covered last month and to see how they have improved.

“My presence here is also to work on the management of techniques which are best suited for the athletes,” said the Malagasy coach.

She added that the karatekas have improved on both their form and techniques and they have been showing more grit in training as they want to improve.

“The karatekas have the potential to represent their country and make their nation proud,” said coach Razafindrakoto.

Neil Sirame