Hidalgo Sport. Lauro Campos.- Hidalgo experienced a weekend of high-level karate during the state championship held at the Metropolitan University Center (CEUMH) sports center. The competition made it clear that the discipline is growing and that local athletes are already beginning to look firmly towards national stages.
The president of the Hidalgo Association of Official Karate, Roberto Villeda Andrade, explained that the response exceeded what was expected and highlighted the scope of the event.
“We have an average of six municipalities from Tizayuca, San Agustín Tlaxiaca, Villa de Tezontepec, Zempoala, Pachuca and Ixmiquilpan, one or two athletes who are joining the high competition area,” he said.
“We exceeded expectations a little, there were around 20 more athletes compared to last year,” he added.
With around 100 competitors in categories from 14 to 20 years old, the state championship established itself as a hotbed of talent. The results will allow us to form a solid group of between 35 and 40 athletes who will represent Hidalgo in various modalities, whether in kata or kumite, in search of qualification for the National Olympiad.
Unlike previous editions, the winners will not go through regional stages, but will compete directly in a national competition organized by the Mexican Karate Federation, a change that raises the level and demands.
Those selected will begin a comprehensive preparation process with methodologists, trainers and sports medicine specialists, with the aim of arriving in optimal conditions at the national championship, which could take place in March in Guadalajara or Monterrey.
With this step, AHIKO not only consolidates a well-organized event, but also lays the foundation for Hidalgo to continue growing in competitive karate and stand out on the national scene.
