Dear Sensei, Coach, and Athlete, 

              This year marks the 49^th Washington State International Karate Championships, the longest traditional karate competition in the area. This year we are happy to announce that the International Hayashi-Ha Shito-Ryu Federation's National Championships will be held in conjunction with this event, bringing athlets and esteemed guests from different parts of the US. We truly appreciate the past support from Senseis, officials, athletes, and volunteers, and hope you will join us again for this exciting event.

The tournament will be held on Sunday, May 13^th at Edmonds Community College Seaview Gymnasium, 20000 68^th West, Lynwood, WA 98036.  Registration will open at 7:30am, there will be an officials meeting at 8:15am. This competition will provide an excellent competitive opportunity for karate-ka of all ages and levels to test their skills and gain valuable experience.  Divisions will be divided according to age and level with medals awarded for the top three places.  We will have team Kata events along with the Family Team Kata division.

Competitors are required to wear a traditional white gi, and all officials must adhere to the official dress code, which is: grey pants, white shirt, blue tie, blue blazer, and black non-marking soft-soled shoes. For kumite competition, modified WKF/USA-NKF rules will apply.  Approved red and blue fistpads, mouthguard, and groin protector (males) are required.  Optional equipment includes: approved chest protectors, shin/instep protectors, soft cloth arm guards, athletic safety glasses and headgear (for 13 & under).

The Competition will begin at 9:00am, starting with Kobudo divisions and all Team Kata divisions, including Team Kata.

Online registration will be available at http://events.wkabellevue.com. 

For more information, please contact Junko Arai at (425) 641-8123 or sensei@wkabellevue.com or Matthew Day at (206)784-3171 or mattday@washingtonkarate.com for any questions.

We look forward to seeing all of you there!

Sincerely,