WSKA 2022 Report

As the World woke up from the Coronavirus Pandemic there were times we thought this tournament might not even take place.  Even at the 11th hour, following the sad death Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II,  there was a chance that the Tournament would be halted.

After a lengthy discussion it was agreed that WSKA 2022 would, indeed, go ahead, and what a Championship it was.

The event was hosted by the Karate Union of Great Britain at the fantastic M and S Bank Arena, Liverpool, on behalf of the World Shotokan Karate-do Association. 

Guest of Honour, the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Roy Gladden, thanked WSKA for choosing the City of Liverpool, as well as commending the athletes who continued, throughout the Pandemic, to train in the Art that they love, showing immense dedication and perseverance.  

Richard Poole, President of WSKA signalled two minutes of silence in respect of the death of her Majesty the Queen.

He outlined the challenges that many national teams overcame in order to compete and commended all on their determination to participate. Richard thanked   the KUGB for their vision and courage in hosting this event in the aftermath of COVID and further thanked the organising team for their magnificent achievement in organising such a successful championships. 

With 646 entries from 24 Countries, the atmosphere was electric as the Competition continued over the weekend with competitors supported enthusiastically by a large and excited crowd.  

Prior to the tournament, there was a meeting of Congress where WSKA Executive Board members were elected. These included two new officers.

Congress confirmed the appointment of Hugo Soares as Director of Administration and Leslie Jensen to the position of Vice President. Both new officers will join the Executive Board to work towards expanding WSKA on the international stage.

We are now looking forward to the next WSKA Championships which will be held Portugal in September 2023.