BY TONY IROGA
The Combat Kung Fu International School, Kirakira branch, in Makira Ulawa Province has recorded a significant increase in the number of around 60-plus new participants joining its programmes.
The registration fees for membership are flexible, depending on how much each athlete can afford to contribute.
In an interview with Island Sun yesterday assistant coach Mr Sammie Satu said that this year the club registered boost in number of new participants in the community of Arosi.
He said this approach is to ensure that more young people in the Solomon Islands have the opportunity to join and benefit from kung fu training, regardless of their financial situation.
“The growing interest reflects rising awareness of martial arts training in the community, especially among young people in Kirakira,” he said.
Kung fu not only teaches self-defence skills but also promotes discipline, respect, and physical fitness.
Coach Satu highlighted that last year 2025 the Kirakira Kung Fu Club successfully graded around 20 fighters, awarding them belts as part of their progress in the program.
“The grading was conducted and belts awarded by Sam Alasia from the Honiara main branch club,” he said.
He revealed that since the club was established in Kirakira, no formal grading was carried out until 2025, making it a milestone moment for the branch and its athletes.
“I encourage young people to stay active and take up kung fu as a way to maintain fitness, especially as sickness and illnesses continue to spread across the Solomon Islands,” he said.
He emphasised that practicing kung fu not only builds strength and discipline but also helps to boost the body’s immunity, keeping individuals healthier and better protected from common illnesses.
“Maintaining a regular fitness routine is important for overall wellbeing, and martial arts like kung fu can play a key role in promoting a healthy lifestyle among youths,” he said.
He encourages more young people to take part, saying the program is open to all age groups.
The coach also highlighted that registration fees for membership are flexible, depending on how much each athlete can afford to contribute.
He expressed his sincere appreciation to the Member of Parliament for Central Makira MP Nestor Ghiro for supporting the club with $5,000 towards last year’s grading program.
“The financial assistance greatly helped in organising the event, allowing athletes to successfully complete their grading and be awarded their belts,” he said.
He also acknowledged and thanked Lawrence Niusi for his strong support behind the club.
“This encouragement has motivated members to continue pushing forward and remain committed to developing the club and its athletes,” he said.
He also thanked all members of the kung fu club for their continued commitment to training and for keeping their hope and belief in kung fu strong.
“The dedication and perseverance are key to the club’s growth and success, encouraging the athletes to stay focused and continue improving both in fitness and discipline,” he said.
He also extended his sincere thanks to businessman Eddie for allowing the club to use his venue to host their fundraising activities.
“The support has greatly assisted the club in raising funds to continue its programs and development,” he said.
He thanks parents and supporters for their continued encouragement, which has contributed to the program’s steady growth.
Photo: Supplied
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