At the end of last month six Kent based Shukokai Karate Academy took to the tatami competing at the 2023 English Karate Federations National Championships.

The event took place over the weekend of the 29th and 30th July in Cannock.

Millie Knight from Ashford competed in the visually impaired Para kata
section. Jake Worton competed in the junior 16-17yrs +76kg and
Nathaniel Frimston, both from Downswood,competed in the -70kg 14-15yrs
cadet.

Connor Watts from Bearsted competed in the 14-15yrs -52kg.
Harishan Pirapakaran from Kingswood competed in the -57kg 14-15yrs
cadets and Daniel Foreman from Staplehurst competed in the cadet
14-15yrs kata.

The highlight of the tournament was 3 finals for the competitors
Harishan, Jake and Millie.

Harishan fought exceptionally well throughout, winning 4 fights to get
to the final where he drew and just missed out on gold after the
referees casting vote on who should win. Unfortunately it went the
other way and Harri was left in silver medal position, but his
improvement was very pleasing to see and confidence is growing.

Jake Worton put on a fantastic performance in a new category for him,
just turning 16. Jake won through his fights to land himself in the
final against a strong fighter.

Unfortunately Jake lost the final 2-0 putting him in silver medal position. A great performance by Jake who has recently represented England in the World Karate Federation world championships.

Millie Knight, an ex Paralympian skier, took to the tatami in the
visually impaired para kata. She is the current English, Commonwealth
and British champion. Unfortunately due to a small error Millie took
silver this time and is back in training ready to regain her title
back next year.

Nathaniel Frimston fought valiantly however this was not enough to
take him through to the gala final’s, finishing up with a well
deserved bronze medal for his hard work and improvement this year.

Taking 7th place were Connor and Daniel who both performed well in
their categories, gaining valuable knowledge and experience for the
future years ahead.

Thanks go to Marie Worton who coached for SKA England on the day.

Success was also had in the Referee and Judges department with
promotions going to all in attendance. Sensei Chris Simpson receiving
his English Karate Federation’s Referees badge, Sensei Katie, Sensei
Steve and Sensei Dennis receiving their Kata Judge “B” and Kumite
Judge “A”awards.

The Shukokai Karate Academy England trains every day of the week with
local and national competitions. Please call 07801639052 or email
[email protected] to start your karate journey.