Photos – 31st European Championship

On December 6-8, we held the 31^st European Championship in Prague, Czech Republic, along with an Intercontinental cup. This was the new Era ITKF’s first event; it was inspiring, and everyone could feel the positive energy in the air, the excitement and the anticipation of a bright future. On the Championship participated 185 athletes from 14 countries (Armenia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, Ukraine, United Kingdom).

The judging refreshment course preceding the competition was unique. There was plenty discussion which showed me that people are thinking and learning and that karate is still evolving.

The competition was on a very high technical level, the judging was good and fair, and all the judges followed a unified standard. This is a big achievement as such was uncommon in past ITKF tournaments. There was great friendship and sportsmanship on display between the athletes, judges, officials, and even observers.

At ITKF we welcome all traditional karate styles, not only Shotokan or Nishiyama style. What we adhere to is not one style or another, but universal budo principles. These are like an axiom and true to all martial arts, regardless of the difference in technique or external form. They were discovered and passed down through many generations. They are mental and physical principles that allow us to be most effective in movement and combat; they apply to all areas of life.

The success of the European Championship is a great sign for our future, a sign that everyone is together in one train of thought, seeking unlimited development through Budo Karate, not just as technicians but also as human beings. Let us keep this energy and excitement; we are doing our best in every moment to be the best karate people we can be. Now lets do our best to enable many thousands of people to enjoy growth and development through Budo karate principles.