Three weeks ago, on Sunday, June 22nd, Tokyo's city center pulsed with the energy of over 1,300 karatekas who gathered for the Tokyo Tournament hosted by Shihan Norichika Tsukamoto. From children taking their first competitive steps to seasoned seniors demonstrating decades of dedication, the event was a powerful testament to the global Kyokushin spirit.
A sea of spirit
Before the doors of the arena even opened, a queue stretched around the venue — parents, children, juniors, adults and black belts alike buzzing with anticipation. Inside, the atmosphere was electric. The tournament unfolded across eight tatamis, two of which were elevated on podiums — adding a touch of prestige and making every kumite clash feel like a championship final.
Despite the crowd, the energy remained focused and respectful. Coaches, referees and staff operated seamlessly, orchestrating a high-octane yet orderly event that never once lost its rhythm.
A true international arena
What set this tournament apart was its unique international blend. Fighters flew in from Spain, Ukraine, Costa Rica and Switzerland, including dojoHUB founder and instructor Carla Gallati, who proudly represented Switzerland.
On the judging side, a rare gathering of invited referees joined their Japanese colleagues — a first-class delegation featuring Shihan Koen Spitals (Belgium), Shihan Luigi & Sensei An Polimeno (Switzerland), Shihan Pawel Orysiak (Poland), Shihan Ivan Shymkiv (Ukraine), and Sensei Harris Wallmen (Romania).
This carefully selected group of international referees was invited not only for their expertise, but to foster meaningful exchange and deepen mutual understanding across countries and continents. Their presence brought global experience to the tatami, giving the tournament a refined, almost world championship-like aura — a powerful signal that Shinkyokushinkai is becoming more connected and unified across borders.
Elite spirit. Elite performance.
Every match was a masterclass in spirit and technique. From the youngest competitors to elite fighters, the commitment was visible in every punch, every stance, every kiai.
In the Kata division, dojoHUB's own Carla Gallati took 1st place, a monumental highlight for our team. Other international fighters also shone:
- Severyn Paliy, Ukraine - 1st place
- Luigi Carranza, Costa Rica - 2nd place
- Hugo Cruz, Spain - 2nd place
These results reflect not just individual excellence, but the growing technical level of Shinkyokushinkai Karate worldwide.
Legends in service of the sport
One of the most inspiring sights was watching world champions step into new roles—as referees and organisers.
Names like Shihan Yuji Shimamoto, Sensei Mihiro Suzuki, Sensei Kembu Iriki and of course Shihan Norichika Tsukamoto, alongside his student Kazushi Watanabe, led by example.
Their presence reminded everyone that excellence isn't just about competing — it's about giving back, guiding and building the future of our art.
Thank you, Tsukamoto dojo
From flawless scheduling to the warm hospitality, every detail of the Tokyo Tournament was a tribute to world-class organisation and Shinkyokushin ethos.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Shihan Tsukamoto and his team.
This wasn't just a tournament — it was a celebration of the Shinkyokushin community's unity, spirit and evolving excellence.
Osu.
Pictures: An Polimeno, Yuki Tanaka, Carla Gallati
July 14, 2025