From karate to kung fu, via krav maga and taijutsu, martial arts were the star of a day of exchange organized for the first time by the Tahitian Federation of Karate and Associated Disciplines. The aim: allow practitioners to discover other techniques while strengthening the bonds between the different disciplines.
On the tatami mats, everyone could present their methods and their specifics, but also try out new practices. Participants could notably discover the lion dance, offered by kung fu practitioners.
“It’s interesting, it’s the first time we’re seeing this, and it helps us grow as athletes, it’s good,” says a karate practitioner. Another participant also appreciates the variety of techniques presented: “We’ve gone through quite a few techniques; it’s interesting, we have a practical view of martial arts and the different techniques, but in a more special and folkloric setting.”
A federation opening up to new disciplines
This first gathering comes as the federation continues its development. With the addition of five new disciplines, it now counts 16 clubs. In addition to the various karate schools, kung fu, krav maga, taijutsu and other self-defense practices are now part of it.
“We knew the names of the various disciplines, but this time we discovered how they operate, and it is indeed a discovery for most of us. It is also a real enrichment for the federation to have disciplines that differ so much from one another, all moving forward together.”
A diversity praised by Philippe Saint-Val, karate coach: “We knew the names of the various disciplines, but this time we discovered how they operate, and it is indeed a discovery for most of us. It is also a real enrichment for the federation to have disciplines that differ so much from one another, all moving forward together.”
With this initial experience behind it, the federation intends to repeat these gatherings to promote exchanges among its members. Meanwhile, its sports calendar continues with the Polynesia Championship, scheduled for November 28.
