WINDHOEK, May 31 -- The Namibia Karate Union (NAKU) hosted the 18th Region 5 Karate Championships which ended on Friday in the country's coastal town of Swakopmund.

National teams from Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe participated in the championships.

This year's Region 5 tournament was the first of its kind to take place over three days, thus replicating the structure of many other international tournaments. Over 266 contestants competed to be crowned the best in Southern Africa.

Team Namibia, which comprised 86 of the country's best karate talent, managed to secure third place behind South Africa and Botswana, with 19 gold, 25 silver, and 61 bronze medals.

Namibian contestant Freddy Mwiya said having the opportunity to compete alongside international stars really stood out for him.

"I have learned a lot about karate that I did not know before. For me, there is nothing better than talking to someone about karate. This is what I love and talking to someone who knows the industry will help me to improve my skills and knowledge," Mwiya said.

Mwiya added that he was looking forward to next year's event, with even more countries set to participate.

Namibia coach Llewellyn Manale said, "The event was a huge success. Hosting an event of such nature and magnitude boasts numerous challenges, both logistically and financially. NAKU wants to extend a tremendous thank you to all individuals involved in the organization and execution of the tournament."

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