The 3^rd TSKF Queensland Karate Titles were held in Emerald from 3^rd to 6^th August. The event, commemorating 30 years of Karate in Emerald under Takahashi Shihan, despite the distance, was well attended with over 90 members attending the 3-day training seminar conducted by Takahashi Shihan, OAM 8^th Dan, Chief Instructor, TSKF.

Members from all clubs throughout Queensland and Northern NSW made the long journey to Emerald, and were warmly welcomed by Sensei Glenn Johansen and his band of willing helpers. The hospitality from all the Emerald members was fantastic. Thank you to Sensei Glenn and the team for your efforts in putting on such a great tournament.

Saturday saw the competition commence early with very spirited displays of kata and kumite from all ranks and age groups. Team kata events were hotly contested with Sensei Ian Harris from Lismore coming out of competition retirement to complete the Lismore team who were the victors for the Dojo Team event. There were a large number of Colour Belt Teams, especially from the host Dojo, with Emerald Brothers taking out first place.

After the Official Opening, conducted by the Mayor of Central Highlands Regional Council, Cr Peter McGuire, final events for black belts were contested, culminating with Ben Skennar and Denise Herzig, both from Lang Park Dojo, taking out both kata and kumite in the Open mens and womens events respectively. The host Club, TSKF Emerald, fittingly took out the President’s Cup for the Dojo with the highest points tally for 1^sts, 2^nds, & 3^rds with TSKF Bundaberg and TSKF Rockhampton Dojos following closely. Full results are available by clicking here.

Trophies were presented by the Officials of the day, and special awards presented by Takahashi Shihan. TSKF Qld President, Stacey Kirmos, said in his closing remarks that he was very pleased with the attendance at this event, the high standard and strong spirit displayed by all competitors and especially thanked all Dojo Heads, members, sponsors and visitors for supporting the event. He also extended special thanks to Sensei Glenn and his team for working to make the Titles run so successfully. The 2012 Queensland Titles will be held in Childers in July next year, the date to be advised.