Shotokan Karate first open tourney Aug 18-19
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Karate Shotokan Association (SKAS) will hold its first open tournament on August 18-19, this year at a venue to be decided.
Its president, Simon Chia, said the first edition of the SKAS 2018 Open Karate Championship will feature various categories to enable all age groups and karatekas of different levels to take part.
“The competition will have novice to elite categories and the tournament is open to all clubs at state, national and international levels.
“This tournament will be the most prestigious event in the SKAS calendar of activities,” Chia said in a statement, yesterday.
According to him, the tournament will also be a platform for grassroots talents to gain quality experience and early exposure.
Chia said the quality of the tournament would be good if all teams compete with their best. He hoped that all clubs wanting to take part will make solid preparation before the tournament.
The tournament, he said, will apply the latest World Karate Federation (WKF) rules and regulations for all events including senior, junior, cadet and children categories.
“From beginners to the most elite competitors, there is a division for everyone and this championship is open to all clubs including national and international athletes. It is the championship that will nurture young athletes and define their talents,” he said.
The closing date for entries is August 1, while the meeting for coaches and team managers will be on August 17.
Chia said so far all the preparation for organising the championship is going smoothly.
“We (SKAS) also paid a courtesy call on the permanent secretary to the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) Datuk Awang Damit Awang Anak last Thursday to inform him about this event.
“With the support and assistance of all parties, I believe the championship will be successful,” Chia said.