The HAITO Karate 1st Juniors Kata Tournament has come to a close, leaving us with memories of remarkable talent, sportsmanship, and the unwavering spirit of martial arts. As we reflect on the event, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who played a part in making this tournament a resounding success.
Highlights and Achievements 🏅
The tournament showcased the talent and dedication of our young karatekas across five age divisions, with participants from HAITO Karate and guest Kyokushin Karate clubs demonstrating their skills on the tatami. Here’s a glimpse of the outstanding achievements:
| Division (Age) | 1st Place 🥇 | 2nd Place 🥈 | 3rd Place 🥉 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 7 years | Nojus Steiblys – BST Academy | Jacob Barker – HAITO Karate | Adinath Kannan – HAITO Karate |
| 7 & 8 years | Sophia Andreea Manea – BST Academy | Noja Jakutyte – BST Academy | Gabrielius Sidlauskas – BST Academy |
| 9 & 10 years | Rebeka Pulina – HAITO Karate | Stanley Michael Crossan – Ward – HAITO Karate | Dominika Dubiel – HAITO Karate |
| 11 & 12 years | Amedeea Maria Manea – BST Academy | Mateo Pantelimon Catrinoiu – HAITO Karate | Darius Junevic – HAITO Karate |
| 13 & 14 years | Calvin Schelts – HAITO Karate | Devesh Mishra – HAITO Karate | Victoria Mazur – BST Academy |
This year, we had the honor of hosting 48 competitors across these categories, each receiving special prizes from Blitz Sports and 3D-printed keychains to commemorate their participation.
Special Acknowledgments 💯
Our gratitude extends to the esteemed judges and referees, whose expertise and dedication ensured fairness and excellence throughout the tournament. A special thank you to Senpai Mantas Žamba, Paulius Steiblys, Lina Kurgoniene, Senpai Lee Swiggelaar, Bartosz Dubiel, Ilze Pulina, Sania Shaji, and Grzegorz Sikorski for their invaluable contribution.
Additionally, we thank Senpai Mantas Žamba from BST Academy, Senpai Lee Swiggelaar from Shinjitsu Dojo, and Sensei Anthony Boylan from MK City Kyokushin Karate for joining us with their students. Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to @alantaphotography for capturing the spirit of the tournament through their lens.
A Heartfelt Thank You ❤️🔥
Competitors, Visitors, Volunteers, Judges, and Referees,
Your passion, dedication, and support were the pillars upon which the success of our tournament was built. Competitors, your commitment to karate and the exceptional performances you delivered were truly inspiring. Judges and referees, your expertise and fairness ensured a competitive and enriching environment for all. Volunteers, your tireless efforts behind the scenes brought our vision to life, and visitors, your encouragement created an atmosphere of camaraderie and unity.
Looking Forward 🔭
As we celebrate the success of our inaugural tournament, we are already looking forward to the next year. Our goal is to make this event a yearly opportunity for young Karatekas to showcase their kata skills.
To all participants, spectators, and supporters, we say Osu! 🙌 and look forward to welcoming you back next year. Your passion for karate and commitment to excellence are what make the HAITO Karate community strong and united.
With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation,
Sensei Gabi and the HAITO Karate Team 🥋