Divided into several categories: poussins, benjamins, minimes, cadets, juniors and seniors, the competitors put on a show appreciated by an audience composed of parents, coaches, and enthusiasts. The kata events preceded the fights, allowing the young practitioners to demonstrate technique and mastery. The Togolese athletes particularly stood out in kata, while the Burkinabè Ulrich Ouédraogo took home a first prize.
At the end of the competition, Augustin Badolo, president of the Abs Shotokan club and technical director, expressed his satisfaction: “I can assure you that I am very satisfied. The more experienced practitioners appreciated the performances of the children. It is a great pleasure for me.”
He emphasized that even non-practitioners enjoyed the performances of the children, including the youngest who were able to perform kata and kumite. “Technically, the karatekas are up to the task,” he said, congratulating himself on the level reached and the growing interest in the competition beyond Burkinabe borders, notably thanks to the presence of members of the Togolese national team.
For his part, Jean-Yves Zidouemba, president of the karatekas’ parents’ committee, praised the progress of the event. “We witnessed the children’s achievements and we are satisfied with them,” he said. He also called on partners to further support karate, “an art that is growing in Burkina Faso and which needs to be supported so that the children can fully flourish.”
The organizers, pleased with the turnout and the technical level, have already set a date for the 6th edition, announced with several innovations. This edition thus confirms its role as a major event for the development of karate in Burkina Faso and the sub-region.
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À propos de l'auteur
Ablam GNAMESSO
Rédacteur sportif
Reporter sportif et journaliste tout terrain. Membre AIPS et jury des IFFHS Awards.