The remarkable kicks and punches in Kumites and the striking action in Katas displayed on the tatamis at the Armec Arena sports hall in Sofia (Bulgaria) confirmed that there is not such a thing as being too young to shine in Karate. Young karatekas participating at the 2017 EKF Junior, Cadet & U21 Championships continued showcasing their impressive skills in the competition being held in the Bulgarian city. 

The remarkable kicks and punches in Kumites and the striking action in Katas displayed on the tatamis at the Armec Arena sports hall in Sofia (Bulgaria) confirmed that there is not such a thing as being too young to shine in Karate. Promising karatekas participating at the 2017 EKF Junior, Cadet & U21 Championships continued showcasing their impressive skills in the competition being held in the Bulgarian city. 

New European Karate’s rising heroes were crowned on the second day of action in Sofia. While Spain had triumphed with three gold medals on the inaugural day, karatekas from powerhouses of European Karate France and Italy took the spotlight on Saturday. 

French competitors wrapped up a remarkable day with three gold medals: Kajith Kanaga Singam in Junior Kumite Male -61kg, Kilian Cizo in Junior Kumite Male -68kg, and Mehdi Filali in Junior Male Kumite +76kg

“It has been such a beautiful day. I am very glad for all that happened and I dedicate this victory to my coach, who accompanied me through all this journey,” said Kilian Cizo. “I just want to thank all those who have made possible for me to be here today,” he commented. 

Italian karatekas sparkled remarkably on Team Kata competition. The “azzurri” karatekas claimed gold in both U21 Kata Team Male and Female thus signing a brilliant performance in the collective category of choreographed movements. Spain also extended their success in Kata with one more gold, in Kata Team Cadet and Junior Female, while Turkey prevailed in Kata Team Cadet and Junior Male.   

In a deserving performance, Slovakia caught the attention of Karate fans with two gold medals today, to be added to their silver and two bronzes. Dominika Veisova won in Junior Kumite Female -48kg and Adi Gyurik triumphed in Junior Female Kumite -76kg. 

“There are no words to describe this moment. I just can say that I am impressed for all that happened and I am very lucky to be here,” declared Adi Gyurik, who defined the performance of Slovak Karatekas today as “just perfect”. 

New Bulgarian celebration  

Following the two medals achieved of the first day, athletes from the organising country continued taking the flag of the host nation to the top of the podium of the competition. Ivet Goranova claimed the second gold for Bulgaria after winning in Junior Female Kumite -53kg, and extended the Bulgarian celebration at Armec Arena. 

“I feel great! I have been preparing for this moment for over a year, and despite the many difficulties that I have encountered, I am glad that it happened here in Bulgaria,” said Goranova, who could not believe winning gold at home. “It is the best thing ever! With all the support that I had from the stands, it was impossible not to win!” declared the 17 year-old karateka. 

Athletes from Italy, Slovakia, Serbia and Portugal also took home top awards in Kumite categories. Italy claims the top spot of the standings with a tally of 11 medals and 5 golds, followed by Spain and France with 13 and 9 medals respectively, 

Karate fans still have the opportunity to follow European Karate future’s stars on the last day of competition on Sunday. Click here for all the information on the 2017 EKF Cadet, Junior & U21 Championships.