First black? shotokan Karateka returns to hero's welcome

First black shotokan Karateka returns to hero’s welcome

April 24, 2005, 18:45

Karate development is slowly but surely paying dividends. Sensei Chris Seabelo of Tlhabane in Rustenburg has become the first black shotokan Karateka and the first South African to obtain his 5th Dan diploma in Japan - the home of martial arts.

A hero’s welcome - karatekas from Mmabana, Lehurutshe, Tlhabane and Mafikeng displaying South Africa’s potential. Seabelo has praticed karate for 21 years and is finally reaping the rewards. Seabelo’s brother Eezy, his mentor, believes more should be done for karate development in the country.

Seabelo will represent South African in the Karate World Cup in Brazil in June.

http://www.sabcnews.com/sport/other/0,2172,102882,00.html

First black? In that region?
He became the first black Shotokan Karateka and 5th Dan at the same time? This is confusing.