CHI REI KAI Shotokan Karate, founded in Kingsbridge in 1999, hosted their first inter-dojo tournament on Saturday.
The event took place at Kingsbridge Community College. The day was officiated by Chi Rei Kai’s Chief Referee, Jay Hawkes Sensei. The event was overseen by the head of the organisation, Ash Hawkes Sensei, and recorded by table managers Sall Hawkes Sensei and Charlotte Hawkes Sensei.
Club members from Ivybridge, Kingsbridge, Malborough, Stokenham and East Allington came together on the day to compete in the friendly tournament. All the club instructors assisted with judging duties.
The morning saw seven Kata events ranging from under-12 novice right up to the teenage brown and black belts and the adult category. After a short lunch break the exciting Kumite events began and ended with the electrifying teenage brown and black belt event. Following the conclusion of the day, the senior instructors presented members with the ‘Student of the Year’ awards for different dojos and categories for 2023.
The day saw 58 people competing, with ages ranging from five to seniors older than 60.
Jay Sensei said, “it was an incredible day. All the clubs have worked really hard in anticipation of this event and the standard was really high. There were smiles all around and it is definitely something we are going to do again.”
Charlotte Hawkes Sensei, who was officiating, said, “the build up and organising of these events is not to be underestimated. We are really pleased to have been able to run this event and it was particularly nice to see members from different dojos coming together and making new friendships.”
Ash Hawkes Sensei, Chief Instructor of Chi Rei Kai Karate, said, “to see it all come together with precision and professionalism was for me amazing. Everyone worked really hard to make the day run well and it was so satisfying to see. The competitors did themselves and us their Instructors proud, it was a great day.”
Sall Hawkes Sensei added, “it was wonderful to see so many students overcoming their anxieties and enjoying themselves at the same time. A great day was had by all!”
All this could not have been possible without continued support from Palladium Building Supplies Ivybridge. The club has seen a whopping 53 per cent increase in hire costs which has been absorbed due to the continued support of their sponsors. Many thanks to Keith Olver and his staff.
If you are interested in learning Karate in a safe environment with qualified instructors please get in touch. Email [email protected] to find out more about class availability and policies detailing the club’s comprehensive safeguarding practices. Alternatively, you can get in contact on 07792 574745 or visit www.chireikai.com.