From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Over 200 athletes, coaches, and karate administrators will gather in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, for the third edition of the “Strata Base National Open Senior Karate Championship.”
The championship will be held at the Alfred Diete Spiff Sports Complex in Port Harcourt from May 1st to 4th, 2024. Athletes from across the country will compete for medals in various categories.
According to a statement by Chukwudi Dimkpa, Chief Executive Officer of Strata Base Group, the main sponsor of the tournament, “Karate fans and enthusiasts from around Nigeria will have the opportunity to relax and witness spectacular bouts of Kumite and Kata among participating athletes and teams drawn from states across the country.”
Dimkpa, who is also the Chairman of the South-South Zone of the Karate Federation of Nigeria, stated that the tournament will not only feature competition between karate practitioners but also include refresher training courses and upgrades for referees and coaches in the combat sport.
He reiterated his commitment to developing the sport and using it as a tool to engage young people, keeping them away from destructive vices while showcasing their talents in an entertaining environment.
“Aside from engaging young people meaningfully and showing them the possibilities of a life away from crime, it was also aimed at showcasing talents to scouts and to serve as an avenue to select and groom athletes who will represent Nigeria in international competitions,” he said.
Dimkpa disclosed that this year’s edition has Solotone Global Ventures Limited and the Rivers State Government as co-sponsors.
Last year’s edition of the “Strata Base National Open Senior Karate Championship,” held at the Sampson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, saw athletes win a total of 60 medals, comprising 16 gold, 16 silver, and 28 bronze. Team FCT-Abuja dominated the table with 11 medals (five gold, one silver, and five bronze). Team Anambra came second with eight medals (four gold and four silver), while Team Strata Base came third with nine medals (two gold, three silver, and four bronze).