Photo of Team Canada Martial Artist
For the first time, the World Kickboxing and Karate Union (W-K-U) held its world championship at the Tsuut’ina Sportplex and Jim Starlight Centre.
The tournament brought over two thousand participants of various ages from all over the world to compete in a variety of martial arts like kung fu, karate, kickboxing, and weapon demonstrations.
Approximately 70 countries brought teams of athletes for the six-day championship tournament where they’ll be competing in 400 divisions.
President of the W-K-U Canada Maeghan Cotterill, has over thirty years of experience in martial arts who also runs Five Elements Martials Arts in South Calgary, shared with CJWE how these physical arts and championships have empowered her and many of the participants.
Photo of Maeghan Cotterill, President of WKU Canada
With having the championship taking place in Tsuut’ina, many participants were shown First Nation Culture as part of the opening ceremony, the flags where brought in with a grand entry and began with a blessing from former Tsuut’ina Chief Lee Crowchild.
Cotteril shared why the tournament was brought to the Tsuut’ina Sportplex and Jim Starlight Centre.
Thursday October 19 will be the final day of eliminations with Friday being the start of the championship.
Admission will be required for those wishing to attend the championship and will conclude on Sunday October 22.
See photos from the event below:
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