The city of Fort Worth in Texas, United States hosted the North American Karate Federation International Training Camp and the USA Open this past week. One of the most prestigious events in the continent, the USA Open and International Training Camp showcased the popularity of Karate in the United States.

The second edition of the NAKF International Training Camp saw a remarkable turnout, with nearly 100 athletes representing the three national federations that form the North American Karate Federation. The activity had the participation of the President of the Pan American Karate Federation (PKF) and WKF 1^st Vice President Dr. José García Maañón, alongside PKF Treasurer and WKF Executive Committee member José Antonio Mendez, as well as Craig Vokey, President of Karate Canada and WKF Executive Committee member, Samantha Desciderio, President of the Karate Federation of Mexico and WKF Executive Committee member, and Elisa Au, President of the USA National Karate Federation and member of the WKF Athletes Commission. The collaborative effort extended to Driss El Mannani, Chairman of the NAKF Technical Commission, and Sasha Gerritson, Vice President of USANKF.

The synergy continued into the USA Open, an event attracting over 1400 athletes from over 33 countries. This year marks the first time the championship has relocated to Fort Worth, Texas, signalling the tremendous interest in hosting Karate events in the country.

Leading up to the competition, participants had the opportunity to enrich their skills through seminars conducted by renowned figures in the karate world. Two-time world champion Antonio Diaz and Chairman of the WKF Technical Commission, Dr. Mohamed Elhosieny provided invaluable insights, setting the stage for a highly competitive event.

WKF President Antonio Espinós  said:

"The USA Open in Fort Worth has demonstrated the unwavering commitment of the USANKF to promote and elevate the sport of karate. Under the leadership of President Elisa Au, this event has not only showcased exceptional talent but also fostered Karate Values and sporting spirit among athletes and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, I would like to congratulate the National Federations of Canada, the United States, and Mexico for successfully celebrating the North American Karate Federation International Training Camp.”

PKF President and WKF Vice President José García Maañón said:

“The collaborative effort showcased at the NAKF Training Camp and USA Open in Fort Worth, Texas, exemplifies the spirit of unity and cooperation within our continent's karate community. By joining forces, we not only strengthen the bonds between our federations but also facilitate the growth and expansion of karate throughout the Americas.  Furthermore, hosting major karate events within our continent holds immense importance. Not only does it provide a platform for our athletes to showcase their skills, but it also serves to cultivate talent and foster a sense of unity among karate enthusiasts across the continent.  My congratulations to the Presidents of the National Federations of the USA, Mexico, and Canada and especially to the coaches of the three Federations for the professionalism demonstrated on the campus, a very important activity for the development of Karate in America.”

Top picture: The NAKF International Training Camp and the USA Open in Fort Worth were huge successes.

The President of the Pan American Karate Federation (PKF) and WKF 1^st Vice President Dr. José García Maañón (standing fifth from right), PKF Treasurer and WKF Executive Committee member José Antonio Mendez (standing third from right), President of Karate Canada Craig Vokey (standing fourth from right), President of the Karate Federation of Mexico Samantha Desciderio (sitting second from right), and President of USA Karate Federation Elisa Au (sitting second from left) pose with the coaches and technical members of the three NAKF federations.

The NAKF International Training Camp reached its second edition.

Two-time World Champion Antonio Diaz headlined a seminar prior to the training camp.

The President of USA Karate Federation Elisa Au inaugurated the activities in Fort Worth.

The Chairman of the WKF Technical Commission Dr. Mohamed Elhoseny conducted a seminar for coaches in Fort Worth.