(Photo WKF)
The second day of the Karate One Youth League in Manila confirmed the global strength of youth karate as winners from seven different countries claimed gold medals in seven categories.
Cadet Kata Male
Malaysia celebrated victory in Cadet Kata Male thanks to Rayyan Shah Zulfaaqqar Abdul, who edged Jeffrey Olaes of the United States in a close 3-2 final. Both athletes delivered strong kata routines, but the Malaysian competitor secured the narrow win.
Cadet Kata Female
Germany’s Mariel Goethe captured the gold medal in Cadet Kata Female after defeating Natalie Goodwin of the United States by 4-1 in the final. Goethe showed confidence and precision throughout the match, earning the judges’ support.
Junior Kumite Male -55kg
Turkmenistan’s Rayan Gurbanmyradov dominated the Junior Kumite Male -55kg final with a convincing 6-1 victory over Romania’s Matei Savulescu. Gurbanmyradov controlled the pace from the opening seconds and used sharp attacks and solid defense to secure the gold medal.
Junior Kumite Male -61kg
Maksym Viechkanov of Ukraine earned the title in Junior Kumite Male -61kg after defeating Thanakorn Taolek of Thailand 5-1. Viechkanov delivered an effective tactical performance and stayed calm under pressure to take Ukraine to the top of the podium.
Junior Kumite Female -48kg
Macau’s Cheok In Ho won the gold medal in Junior Kumite Female -48kg after overcoming Valeria Kulmanakova of WKF-1 by 2-0. Ho remained patient in a tactical contest and scored the decisive points to secure an important international victory.
Junior Kumite Female -53kg
Veronika Gashnikova of WKF-1 claimed the title in Junior Kumite Female -53kg after a 0-0 victory over Gabriela Varanda of Portugal. With no points scored during the bout, the match was decided by Hantei or decision.
Junior Kumite Female -59kg
Denmark’s Hannah Bath Soendergaard delivered one of the strongest performances of the day in Junior Kumite Female -59kg, defeating Croatia’s Paulina Magdalenic by 7-0. The Danish athlete controlled the final from start to finish with fast combinations and accurate scoring techniques.
