Six Bellarine Karateka Champions arrive in Chilie for World Cup

SIX competitors from Bellarine Kyokushin are set to participate in the sixth International Kyokushin Organisation (IKO) World Cup in Santiago, Chile, on December 9 and 10.

This event brings together full-contact Karate athletes from various countries to compete at an international level.

Led by coach Shihan Robbie Adams, the Australian team includes fighters chosen based on their performance in state and national events in 2023.

Mr Adams said the Bellarine fighters have a strong track record.

“Our fighters from Bellarine Kyokushin have been outstanding right throughout the year, securing a number of state and national titles and we have every confidence that they will continue their excellent form into the World Cup.

“Bellarine Kyokushin has been sending fighters to international events over the last 25 years and with six selections two males and four females is the biggest team to date.”

“For the very first time we have two junior fighters selected who will compete under modified rules wearing protective equipment, whereas the Open section fighters will compete without any padding.”

This year’s Bellarine representation, the largest to date, includes six members:

Samuel Shields, Michael Dent, Leigha Adams, Lily Shields, Taylor Holmes, and Charlie Holmes.

The group, consisting of two males and four females, also features two junior fighters, Taylor and Charlie Holmes, who will compete under modified rules with protective gear, in contrast to their senior team-mates Samuel Shields, Michael Dent, Leigha Adams and Lily Shields.

“It’s an incredible test of the individual’s strength, power, technique and resolve and our fighters are absolutely ready.”

Founded in Japan in 1964 by Sosai Matsutatsu Oyama, Kyokushin Karate – known for its full-contact style – has expanded to over 120 countries with more than 12 million practitioners.

Geelong resident and South Pacific chair Shihancho Gary Viccars was one of three selectors for the Australian Team and is excited to see the team perform in Chile.

“Bellarine Kyokushin have consistently developed world class fighters for our Branch and I’m excited to see what they and the other team members do on the world stage.

“Anyone who draws an Australian is going to have one heck of a fight on their hands!”

He said the team had been supported by branch members raising funds to send them to Chile through raffles, donations, events and GoFundMe.