In October 2024, nine JKA WF Malta members travelled to Japan for two weeks to train with some of the most exceptional Japanese JKA Instructors and Karatekas at the JKA Headquarters Autumn Camp and also to participate at the much awaited Funakoshi Gichin 16th JKA World Cup.
Together with over 1800 participants from over 55 countries/regions, our team gave their absolute best, representing our nation with pride and dedication in such a prestigious international and highly competitive Tournament.
Even though our members did not pass through to finals, it was most certainly an unforgettable experience for all of them.
Our Seniors Team Kumite Men – Yanes Nocilla, Paul Falzon, Karl Cilia, Darren Cilia and Darren Bianco – won against Norway but then lost to Czech Republic.
In Veterans Category 40 – 49 yrs Lucia Mazzelli won against Brazil in individual kumite but then lost to Argentina.
In Women’s Individual Kumite Yuki Nocilla passed 3 consecutive winning rounds against Switzerland, Brazil and Denmark but then lost to Argentina in Quarter finals.
May all participants hold onto the memories made throughout these exciting training and competition days, sharing them with those of us who eagerly await hearing about each moment, each challenge, and each victory. May they celebrate their successes, but also embrace the lessons learned in defeat—each experience strengthening not just individuals, but the entire JKA Karate community, helping us all grow and improve!
We are all looking forward to come back to Japan in three years’ time!
