Barbados is getting ready to host the 2018 International Karate Daigaku (IKD) World Cup which is set for August 17-19 at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium.
This was revealed on Saturday at a media conference held at the Barbados Shotokan Karate Club in Hastings by president of the Barbados Karate Association, Paul Bernstein, and public relations officer Kevin Cox.
The highly competitive Shotokan Karate tournament will see karatekas from across the globe putting their skills to the test in various disciplines as Barbados try to defend home turf. These individual and team events encompass kata (forms), kumite (sparring), bunkai (practical applications) and enbu (demonstrations).
Over 30 karatekas have been trying out for the national team since late last year under the guidance of Alice and Paul Bernstein (8th degree black belt), Neil Skeete and Gerard King, both 7th Degree black belt, Michael Williams and former World champion Cameron King.
“They have been training under the watchful eye of some of the highest ranking members of the IKD. . . these karatekas ranging from eight years old to seniors [50+] will be vying for a place on the national squad,” Cox said.
He said a number of Canadian provinces such as Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Quebec had expressed interest and confirmed participation.
“Also countries like USA, South America, South Africa, Philippines and England. We are still receiving queries from as far as India and Pakistan,” Cox said noting the deadline for countries to enter was June 30.
Bernstein noted that the tournament had been estimated to cost the local organising committee around $100 000 and they have already raised $33 000 from fund-raising ventures.
“In order to host this international tournament which should see over 400 competitors, along with coaches and families, the Barbados Karate Association began its fundraising efforts since last year,” Cox said.
“So far letters have gone out to corporate Barbados for sponsorship and we are thankful for sponsors such as the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc and others for coming on board to help facilitate this immense challenge.
“We are hoping that other entities will come on board to assist with this worthy endeavour and help to make this tournament a huge success,” he said.
A tournament website has been created which is www.shotokanbarbados.com/ikdworldcup/ (PR/EZS)
