10/09/2026
The first competition back on the circuit after the summer break saw Shinzoku Ryu travel to the University of Birmingham Sport Centre as part of the British Karate Alliance to compete at the GB Open Karate Championship.
It was an extremely busy day, with an early start and a late finish. All our competitors took it in their stride, and it was encouraging to see that even after their categories had finished, many chose to stay and support their teammates rather than head home. That team spirit is at the very heart of Shinzoku Ryu, and it was greatly appreciated.
Our competitors were:
Halle, Raine, Reuban, Millie, Benjamin, Isla, Penelope, Taylan, Madison, Freya, Matty, Daisy, Katie and Steve.
The confidence shown by our youngest competitors, Halle, Raine, Reuban and Millie, was particularly pleasing to see. Their willingness to step onto the mat without hesitation and compete across all categories, including Kata, Juruken and Kumite, bodes extremely well for the future. The categories they entered were unusually large, but they battled on regardless, with Raine fighting her way to a well-deserved bronze medal in Juruken.
Not everyone came away with a medal, despite some excellent performances and a few unfortunate decisions. However, significant personal milestones were achieved. Twelve months ago, Benjamin would have been hesitant to step onto the mats, despite his desire to compete. Now, he gets up there and simply gets on with the job. Taylan continues to face increasingly challenging categories against strong opponents yet always gives his all. Madison is growing stronger with every competition and was unlucky to fall short after a few referee decisions. Matty once again found himself in a very competitive section, but today just was not his day.
Daisy, who is still relatively new to competition, finished a very respectable fourth place in Kata in only her second tournament. Katie, competing in the 18-35 age category for both Kata and Kumite, faced strong, experienced opponents, and represented the club admirably.
Isla fought her way to a silver medal in Juruken and, as always, challenged herself further by stepping up into higher categories against older competitors. At just nine years old, she even considered helping in an 11-12 Kumite team, demonstrating both courage and commitment.
Penelope earned a bronze medal in Kata in another large category. Her dedication to training, both inside and outside the dojo, is beginning to pay off, and it is fantastic to see her efforts being rewarded.
Freya, recently promoted to black belt, competed in her first Kumite category. Despite taking a few heavy hits, she showed tremendous determination and fought her way to a well-earned bronze medal.
Finally, we come to the self-proclaimed "Tin Man", Steve. His hard work outside the dojo was evident throughout the day, earning him a silver medal in Kata. He also secured a bronze medal in Kumite, despite a lengthy gap between the two categories.
Congratulations to everyone who competed. Regardless of the results, you all represented Shinzoku Ryu with pride, determination, and excellent sportsmanship.
A huge thank you also goes to all of the parents who continue to support the club, bring their children to events, help those whose parents are unable to attend, and, of course, keep an eye on Raine! Without your support, we simply could not do what we do. Your help, commitment and encouragement are very much appreciated.
Well done, everyone!
