Last Sunday, The USKFI held their 8th National Championships at the Blanchardstown Institute of Technology. This years competition was the biggest to date with upto 180 competitors taking part, and twice as many spectators to make the atmosphere on the day electric.

As usual, the team kumite events were the most exciting, with the Newbridge female team beating Zanshin 2 to 1 to win the title. Corduff male team also won a very decisive battle 3 to 0 over the Zanshin male team.

Female Team Kumite winners 2009, Congratulations to Team Newbridge! (Click to enlarge)

Male Team Kumite winner 2009. Congratulations to Team Corduff

The spectators were also introduced to the USKFI Junior Squad who will be representing Ireland at this years KUGB Liverpool Youth Championships.

(Each squad member will be provided with the team kit including the new USKFI tracksuit, flights, accomodation and meals fully funded by the USKFI with funds raised from grades, competitions, courses and fund raising. The USKFI would like to thank all parents and sponsors for their loyal support throughout the year!)

After a great day, Chief Instructor Sensei Michael Sherlock Presented Savannah Coates of Tunnyduff Shotokan Karate Club and Louise Dunne of Lucan Shotokan Karate Club with trophies for the best overall competitors. Savannah Coates came 1st in under 16 kata, second in Ippon Kumite and first with her fellow Tunnyduff team mates in the team kata. Louise Dunne came 1st place in 12-15 yrs Kumite under 5'5'', 1st place in kata under 16 green-purple belt and second with her team mates from Lucan for team kata. Congratulations to both and keep up the hard work!

(left) Savannah Coates & Sensei Sherlock, (Right) Louise Dunne and Sensei Sherlock. (Click to enlarge)

The USKFI would like to thank all competitors and Spectators for making it a very special day!