A Fantastic Showcase of Karate at the 2024 ESKA Championships in Gondomar, Portugal

The 2024 European Shotokan Karate-Do Association (ESKA) Championships took place last weekend in the vibrant city of Gondomar, Portugal. Teams from across Europe gathered to compete at the highest level of Shotokan karate, showcasing exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

The 36th ESKA Championships were held over three days at the impressive Multiusos de Gondomar, a venue that provided an ideal setting for the prestigious event. The competition featured intense battles across a range of categories, including individual kata, team kata, individual kumite, and team kumite for cadets, juniors, youth, seniors, and, for the first time, Veterans. Athletes demonstrated the true spirit of karate, with some stunning performances that celebrated the rich traditions of Shotokan karate.

The host nation, Portugal, delivered an incredible performance, topping the medal table, followed closely by Italy. England and the Czech Republic shared the third position, reflecting the high level of karate across the continent.

The closing ceremony marked the conclusion of this prestigious event in spectacular fashion, celebrating the achievements of all competitors and the unity of the Shotokan karate community. In a symbolic gesture, the ESKA flag was handed over by José Ferreira, President of the Portuguese Karate Federation (LPKS), to another representative of LPKS who are also the next hosts of the ESKA championships in 2025. This ceremonial exchange signified the transition and generated excitement for the next championships.

Mr Richard Poole president of ESKA paid tribute to Sensei Hiroshi Shirai of Italy who inspired many thousands of shotokan students throughout Italy and Europe and also to Kent Rantzow a member of the ESKA referee commission who is greatly missed by ESKA members. Both passed away during the last 12 months. The families of both Sensei Shirai and Kent Rantzow were in attendance.

ESKA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the organisers, referees, volunteers, and supporters who made this championship possible. Special thanks go to the city of Gondomar for its warm hospitality and to the Portuguese Karate Federation (LPKS) for their exceptional efforts in hosting this successful event.

Congratulations to all the athletes who participated and to those who achieved medal success. Your dedication and perseverance continue to inspire the Shotokan karate community across Europe.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to the next ESKA Championships for another celebration of Shobu Ippon Karate in Portimao Portugal from 21st to 23rd November, 2025.