Friday, December 13, 2013

World Championships - Opening Ceremony and Day 1

The IKGA World Championships are underway!

Opening Ceremonies

After a full day of meetings...including the 6th IKGA Congress, Referee and Officials meeting, and Officials training, the members of IKGA were treated to a fantastic opening ceremony that highlighted different aspects of the traditions and culture of India. Among the wonderful displays was a fantastic example of traditional Indian gymnastics provided by group of visually impaired young people, and various forms of Indian cultural dance displayed by grade school students. A true feast for the senses!

Members of IKGA provided demonstrations of Karate that included examples of Kata, Bunkai, self defense and unarmed combat. All of this led up to the visiting Japanese Shihans' demonstration, led off by Yasuko Yamada Shihan performing kata Shisochin, and followed by Sanchin-Tensho kata. The final demonstration was provided by Saiko Shihan Goshi Yamaguchi. Saiko Shihan performed the Tokutei Kata Kouryu - the third kata taught only once an instructor has reached the level of Shihan. It was the perfect way to wind up the opening of the premiere event for the IKGA!

Day 1


Day 1 got off to a bit of a late start due to some last minute changes to the draws, but the organizers managed to persevere and got things moving smoothly. The competition started of with senior Kata divisions, and finishing up with senior Kumite divisions. The competition has been fierce, and each country has certainly sent their best athletes! It is easy to see that all the nations have been practicing hard since the last championships, and it's inspiring to know that IKGA's future will thrive in some very talented young Karateka.

We would also like to make a special note to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of the Officials. They have all come a long way to provide the very best in officiating. Thank you to all the Officials and volunteers! Without your effort our championships would not be possible.

Check back for more updates and results of the IKGA World Championships!

IKGA Congress in Mumbai, India

The 6th Congress of the IKGA was held on Wednesday, Dec 11th, 2013. Members from all the nations represented in IKGA were invited and encouraged to discuss issues in our association...including the location of the next IKGA World Championships and Congress. The meeting was presided over by our President, Saiko Shihan Goshi Yamaguchi, and was well attended. John Priegert Shihan, Shibucho for IKGA Canada presented Canada's proposal for Canada's bid for the 7th IKGA World Championships, which was supported and accepted by the members. Congratulations Canada, and good luck planning your event!

Remember to come back here for more news, photos and more!

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Good luck IKGA teams!

Teams are starting to arrive in Mumbai from around the world! Canada has already arrived. Have any other teams already made it to India yet? Let us know in the comments! 

Good luck to all the members of IKGA that are participating in the IKGA World Campionships this week! 

Remember to keep visiting these pages for updates and photos on the World Championships.

Sunday, December 1, 2013

World Championship Updates

6th Karate-do Goju-kai (IKGA) World Championships
The 6th IKGA World Championships in Mumbai, India is just over a week away! For up to date news about the Championships, results and images from the tournament keep coming back to this page!
We will try to post daily from India during the tournament, and hope that IKGA members will enjoy being kept up to date.