Kota Kinabalu: A tri-nation bootcamp and friendly match involving athletes from Indonesia, India and local clubs/teams was hosted by Shotokan Karate Association of Sabah (SKAS) here recently.
Its president Simon Chia said the idea for the two-day event came about following the planned visit of his counterparts from Indonesia and India to have a seminar held here.
The Indonesian team is from Universitas Singaperbangsa Karawang (Unsica) led by Dr Resty Gustiawati and sensei Ricky Barnabas and the Indian team is the Shinjidai Karate Do International team from Bangalore led by sensei Dominic Savio Gloridass.
“Since there were athletes coming with both delegations, we decided to make the most of their visit by hosting an exclusive friendly match with karate enthusiasts from Sabah,” he said.
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Day one kicked off with a kumite clinic at SKAS Dojo conducted by Simon followed by the Kaifuku-Ryoku fitness challenge in the morning of day two at Bukit Bantayan Residences (BBR).
The main event on the second day was the friendly match featuring 48 participants from Indonesia, India and the local teams competing in 15 categories.
Simon added that the event in collaboration with BBR and supported by their township management was jointly organised with B Project as a community partner.
“It was held in conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebration, and it was not just a competition but an opportunity to strengthen international relationships as well as exchanging expertise and ideas, honing skills and to celebrate karate spirit across borders,” he added.
He also extended his thanks to the management committees, volunteers, parents, athletes, referees, judges and club presidents for their joint efforts in making the event to unite and strengthen the community a success.
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