MARLON George (Brown Belt) and seven year old purple belt holder Kristalia Chaves excelled at this year’s Japan Karate Association/ World Federation 2010 National Karate tournament, copping the top performer prizes for Best Male and Female competitors respectively at the National Gymnasium last Saturday.
A closely knitted crowd of spectators gathered at the venue to witness the Okinawan – originated Japanese traditional karate practiced by our locals, with the event turning out to be well enjoyed and excitement filled one.
Following the competitors assembly, the National Anthem, chief instructor’s welcome, judges introduction and the Competitors Oath, it was then “action time”. The children’s divisions ran off first with competing ages ranging from 5- 6 up to 9 – 11 boys and girls in Kata and Kumite individual contest.
Team Kata contest was also a part of their division. Following this, the teens and their demonstrations lit up the atmosphere, providing superb entertainment, and setting the tone for their aspect of the competition.
Their division had categories from ages 12 – 14 and 15 – 17 ( male and female) in both Kata and Kumite that set the tempo, creating the build up for what was  to come next.
The adults then ignited from this set, with a suspenseful demonstration which displayed the high level of concentration and skill developed by the Karatekas. The anticipated high point soon arrived as the senior (adult) divisions (male and female) Kata and Kumite got underway.
Fiery performances from the Berbicians thrashing it out against Georgetown in the individual events saw total involvement, as all were cheering, giving support to their favourites. In the team Kata and Kumite three- man style event, the Berbicians displayed their eagerness to come out victorious, but yet again, the Georgetown team managed to hold them off. Excellent camaraderie was displayed by all, conveying the true essence of sportsmanship and discipline, despite having won or lost.
As the tournament concluded, there was a special awards segment, honouring Marlon George, who is the recipient of this year’s Master Funakoshi Trophy for his efforts in adherence to Karate principles, and 5- year- old Nkhruma Hutson, who was the youngest competitor.
Also, awards for the top male and female performers of the tournament went to Marlon George and 7- year- old Kristalia Chaves, who headlined this competition.
Presentations of Medals and Trophies were done by Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, and Secretary of the Guyana Karate Federation, Ms. Bernice Irving.
The members expressed their satisfaction at the tournament’s success, and welcomed the praise received from both regulars and first- timers, while the organisation’s governing body would like to express a special ‘ thank you’ to the National Sport Commission, sponsors, supporters, volunteers, parents and invitees.