Italian Kata Dominates, Veterans Shine at European Cup
Catania, Italy, buzzed with the energy of 144 athletes, a record-breaking turnout for the Grand Prix National Kata. The second event of the Italian circuit saw a surge in participation, exceeding even last year’s numbers.this resounding success delighted the Kata National Commission and organizers alike.
A Record-Breaking Kata Event
Giovanni strazzeri, president of the Kata National Commission, expressed immense satisfaction, stating, ”We’ve reached numbers never before seen in the history of the Sicilian Grand Prix. We’re particularly pleased with the participation in the under-18 youth category, a testament to its growing popularity.” The commission also extended gratitude to all participants,referees,and organizers for their contributions to the event’s success.
Youth Category Flourishes
- The under-18 youth category,now in its third year,has seen remarkable growth.
Further accolades went to Corrado Buongiorno,president of the regional judo committee,and Franco Sorbello,president of the regional fight committee,who graced the awards ceremony. Maestro Mauro Collini and athlete Erik Cheli also contributed a captivating demonstration of Adapted Kata, showcasing the Kdokan Goshin jutsu.
Italian Veterans Triumph at Riga
Italy’s veteran team secured a commendable third-place finish at the Riga Veteran european Cup, amassing seven medals. The Italian team, though falling short of the Latvian hosts and the French team, who claimed more gold medals, still achieved a significant victory.
Medal Winners
- Gold: Melissa Cicuto (63 kg F1), Pasquale Iacomino (66 kg M5),
- Silver: Ilaria Soulas (63 kg F1), Simone Giannone (73 kg M2), Jacopo Desiderio (66 kg M3), Francesco Aiello (73 kg M3), Federico Iterar (90 kg M7)
The Italian veterans expressed pride in their team spirit and harmony, qualities that consistently set them apart. Manuela Tadini and Alessandro Tuccillo, members of the Master commission, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s remarkable performance.
Manzi Claims Gold in Warsaw
Elios Manzi, a Sicilian athlete, secured a gold medal at the Warsaw european Open on the first day of competition. He triumphed in the 66 kg category, while Fabrizio Esposito took silver in the 73 kg division.
The competition continues tomorrow with weight classes ranging from -81 kg to +100 kg for men and -48 kg to -57 kg for women.
