Title “The Power of Unity and Our Pledge for the Future”
It is hard to believe that nearly a month has passed since the moving and historic World Championship. Here in Japan, we are now in the midst of the rainy season. The streets are gently moistened by continuous rain, and the air carries a sense of the approaching summer. I hope this message finds you all well in your respective regions. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering dedication to the growth and development of Shinkyokushinkai.
The 1st World Fullcontact Karate Championship, held on May 31 and June 1 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, was a tournament of unprecedented scale, gathering competitors, officials, and spectators from around the world. Above all, it was the unity and commitment of Shinkyokushinkai’s Branch Chiefs and Contacts across the globe, who took on the vital role of organizing the event, that made its great success possible. I extend my deepest appreciation to all of you.
In this tournament, our athletes fought not only as representatives of their own countries or regions, but also with the proud spirit of being representatives of Shinkyokushinkai. It is a source of pride for all of us that our global comrades challenged other styles and organizations and achieved many outstanding victories.
Moreover, beyond the competition itself, the presence of the Shinkyokushinkai Youth Demonstration Team and the heartfelt special performance by Ms. Ieva, a blind karateka, added richness and emotional depth to the event. These contributions truly elevated the tournament to something greater.
Looking ahead, we now move forward toward upcoming national and regional tournaments, followed by the 14th World Open Karate Championship in two years and the next World Fullcontact Karate Championship in four. Our responsibilities are wide-ranging—from nurturing athletes to strengthening organizational operations and engaging with local communities. But I take great pride in walking this path together with all of you, as we build the future of Shinkyokushinkai.
Wishing you all continued good health and further prosperity in your respective dojos,
I offer this message of appreciation as we close the month of June.
Osu,
Kenji Midori
Representative, Shinkyokushinkai