Guyana karatekas shine at ISKF Master Camp

A 20-member delegation from ISKF-Guyana recently returned from the 56th ISKF Master Camp in Pennsylvania, USA, where they secured medals in the international tournament and put forward a bid to host the prestigious Shoto Cup World Tournament in 2029.

The intensive camp, held from June 6-13, brought together ISKF members globally for masterclass instruction from elite Japanese instructors, including Hiroyoshi Okazaki Shihan (9th Dan, ISKF Chief Instructor) and Shojiro Tobita Sensei (7th Dan).

The camp culminated in an international tournament on June 12, where Guyanese karatekas delivered strong performances:

• Justin Sampson secured gold in the Male Open Kata (Under 18) division.
• Nyota Rodrigues claimed bronze in Female Open Kumite (18+) and silver in Female Mixed Kumite.
• Bradley Mohabir, Alex Rodrigues & Shawn Jemmott earned bronze in Male Team Kumite (18+).

Beyond the competitive arena, Marlon George, Secretary of ISKF-Guyana, successfully completed the examinations to earn his ‘C’ Class Judges License, administered during live competition.

At the ISKF Country Directors’ meeting, Guyana formally proposed to host the 6th Shoto Cup World Tournament in 2029, ISKF’s most prestigious event. In recognition of their contributions, ISKF-Guyana also received the ‘Best Supporting Country’ award.

The team’s preparations for the Master Camp included a successful National Tournament on May 31 at the Marian Academy Auditorium, featuring 98 competitors across various categories.

Looking ahead, ISKF-Guyana is now preparing for the 5th Shoto Cup World Tournament in Mexico in 2026, with top medalists from their recent National Tournament being considered for selection.

The association extended gratitude to its partners, including Guyana Beverages Inc. and Trophy Stall, for their support.