Karatedo Shitokai New Zealand

2013 Manawatu Championship - Sunday 17th November 2013

Karatedo Shitokai New Zealand - Palmerston North recently attended the Manawatu Champs. The event attracts many of the local clubs and it is often the first time many of the younger students get a chance at competing in kata and kumite. In all, there were about 90 competitors.

Kataedo Shitokai New Zealand – Palmerston North has been attending this event since 2009 and is the 5^th time we have competed, with each team member gaining a placing.

Kieran Nuku won the Mens Open Kata winning straight flags in each round with a very strong Nipaipo and Seinchin, his form improving since his recent trip to the Shitoryu World Championships held in September this year in Tokyo.

Dave Nuku managed to hold his own in the Mens Vets taking 2^nd place with Gojushiho and Suparinpei.

Caitlin Talbot did very well for her first time in competition. Caitlin was in the 12-15 year Girls Kata, having to go three rounds to make the finals. Caitlin performed a very good opening kata with Seinchin followed by Bassaidai taking straight flags each. In the final with a repeat kata she was unfortunate to have dropped a flag and gaining second place.

Caitlin also competed in Kumite for the first time with both girls exchanging the odd contact and gaining points. The round was extended for another minute after they both had equal points on time, with her opponent getting a point 8 seconds before it ended.

Final result:

Kieran Nuku – 1^st in Mens Open Kata

Dave Nuku – 2^nd Mens Vets

Caitlin Talbot – 2^nd 12-15 year Girls Kata