On Saturday, HAITO Karate turned into a wall-to-wall sea of white gis, kiais, and buzzing nerves as we hosted our KYOKUSHIN Novice & Open Kata Tournament.
57 competitors stepped onto the tatami one by one, bringing sharp techniques, strong spirit and serious focus. It was everything we love about Kyokushin – discipline, respect, and courage – all packed into one unforgettable day.
And yes… in the middle of all the excitement, we even managed to break our home-made podium during the medal photos. When you’ve got that much energy in the room, something has to give! 😄🥇
This event marked HAITO’s 4th and final tournament of 2025, and what a way to close the year.
57 Competitors, One Tatami, Endless Spirit
From the very first bow to the final “Osu!”, the tatami never rested.
- Young first-timers stepping out in their novice kata competition categories
- Confident, experienced students testing themselves in the open kata divisions
- Supportive parents, coaches, and seniors cheering respectfully from the sidelines
This kyokushin kata tournament wasn’t just about perfect stances and sharp techniques. It was about courage – especially for those stepping in front of judges for the very first time.
Every competitor, whether from HAITO or visiting dojos, showed what Kyokushin is really about: pushing your limits, staying humble, and supporting each other.
Moments We’ll Remember (Yes, Including the Broken Podium)
A few highlights from the day:
- Steady, focused performances from absolute beginners who only started training this year
- Technically beautiful kata from advanced competitors who raised the standard for everyone watching
- Judges and referees giving clear, constructive feedback to help students grow
- Family members seeing their children’s hard work pay off in real time
And of course… the home-made podium that finally gave up after doing its duty in four tournaments this year. It didn’t survive, but the smiles and laughter around it said everything about our community.
That’s the kind of memory people will be talking about for years.
Why Kata Tournaments Matter for Our Students
Even students who love full contact karate training benefit massively from kata.
Kata builds:
- Balance, precision and timing
- Mental focus under pressure
- Discipline, patience and attention to detail
- The ability to perform under the eyes of judges and a crowd
Tournaments like this give a clear goal: a date, a standard, and a reason to train that little bit harder. Whether students win medals or not, they walk away better than they were the week before.
For a growing HAITO Kyokushin Karate Club in Peterborough, these moments are priceless. They shape the next generation of karateka.
Thank You to Our Judges, Referees and Visiting Friends
Events like this don’t happen without a team effort.
To our judges, referees, table staff, volunteers and supporters – thank you. Your time, energy and experience turned a normal Saturday into something special.
A huge OSU to our friends and visitors from across the Kyokushin community, including:
@bkg.kyokushin
@shinjitsukyokushinkarate
@karate_ashford
@wimbledon_karate_kyokushinkai
@jaredkwright
@stuartj.wright
@whynot_hay_why
@barx7
@perrykeri
@ilzepulina
…and everyone else who helped, competed, coached or cheered. We are truly honoured that so many people travel to be part of HAITO tournaments.
Looking Ahead to 2026 – Kumite & Kata
This was our last tournament of 2025, but we’re not slowing down.
In 2026 we’ll be back with:
- Spring kata tournaments
- Spring kumite events
- More opportunities for students to step up, test themselves and grow
We’ll publish the dates for both kumite and kata soon. Keep an eye on our social media and the events section of HAITO Karate Peterborough for announcements. We fully intend to keep building some of the most exciting karate tournaments in Cambridgeshire.
That’s how you finish strong – and how you start the next chapter even stronger.
Want to Get Involved? Join HAITO Karate
If watching the tournament made you or your child want to try karate, this is the perfect time to start.
We offer:
- Childrens karate classes Peterborough – structured, and focused on confidence, respect and coordination
- Juniors and teens classes – developing discipline, fitness and resilience
- Adult sessions – whether you’re new or returning after a break
If you’re searching online for karate classes Peterborough or kyokushin karate Peterborough, we’d love you to visit us and experience a session in person.
Come train with an independent kyokushin karate club in Peterborough that genuinely cares about student progress, community and real Kyokushin spirit.
👉 Check our timetable and register for a free 1-week trial via the website.
Osu, and thank you once again to every competitor, coach, parent, official and supporter who made this HAITO KYOKUSHIN Novice & Open Kata Tournament such a powerful way to close out the year.