7th National Shinkyokushinkai Karate Tournament

WKO Shinkyokushinkai Philippines Celebrates the Success of the 7th National Full Contact Karate Tournament On January 25, 2025, the WKO Shinkyokushinkai Philippines held its highly anticipated 7th National Full Contact Karate Tournament at the Jun Torres Gymnasium in Mandaluyong City. The event was a resounding success, with a total of 145 competitors from across the country participating in both kata and kumite categories. Representatives from six different karate organizations came together to showcase their skills, determination, and the spirit of Kyokushin. • WKO SHINKYOKUSHINKAI PHILIPPINES, led by Sensei Richard Picar • World Kyokushin Budokai, led by Sensei Vadim Budnikov • World So-Kyokushin, led by Sensei Rowelter Retoriano • IKOK Sonoda, led by Sensei Rehan Aedam Mieuki • Kyokushin Kenbukai Philippines, led by Sensei James Dela Cruz • TOUGHGUYS, led by Sensei Vince Xaris Vicencio A strong contingent of 60 karatekas represented Shinkyokushinkai Philippines, demonstrating their prowess and commitment to full-contact karate. Among them, 20 outstanding karatekas from eight different Shinkyokushinkai dojos brought home trophies, marking a significant achievement for the organization and highlighting the depth of talent and dedication within its ranks. KATA WINNERS: 1. Parsley Prado- 2nd place Green to Brown Belt Category 2. Linneaus Acuna- 3rd place Green to Brown Belt Category 3. Eliza Perida- 2nd place Blue to Yellow Category 4. Charles Devlin Elliazar- 3rd place Blue to Yellow KUMITE WINNERS: 1. Senpai Hanzel Raguine- Champion Women’s Advanced Category 2. Jenna Morales- 2nd place Women’s Advanced Category 3. Ariston Enrique – 2nd place Men’s Advanced Category 4. Gerard Contreras- 3rd place Men’s Category 5. Jireh Arimado- Champion Women’s Beginner Category 6. Chaseo Bin- 2nd place Women’s Beginner Category 7. Dale Melchert- 2nd place Men’s Beginner Category 8. Raphy Asuncion- 3rd place Men’s Beginner Category 9. Hannah Pascual- 3rd place 14-15 yrs old Girls Category 10. Brianna Skye Borcelis- Champion 11-12 Girls Category 11. Raizelle Margaux Villafuerte- 2nd place 11-12 Girls Category 12. Charles Devlin Elliazar-2nd place 11-12 Boys Category 13. Blake Borcelis- 3rd place 8-9 Boys Category 14. Juan Miguel Santos- 2nd place 7-8 Boys Category 15. Eliza Perida- Champion 7-8 Girls Category 16. Yuri Betcher- Champion 6 Below Category The tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the continuous growth of karate in the Philippines. The collaboration among various karate organizations underscored the unifying power of martial arts, creating a platform for participants to learn from one another and elevate their skills. Shinkyokushinkai Philippines extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, instructors, organizers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this event. The tournament not only showcased the strength and discipline of the competitors but also reinforced the values of respect and perseverance that are central to the practice of karate. As the organization looks ahead, it remains committed to fostering the spirit of Kyokushin and nurturing the next generation of karatekas. The success of the 7th National Full Contact Karate Tournament is a testament to the vibrant karate community in the Philippines and a promising sign of even greater achievements in the future. Osu!