The weekend 3 and 4 June 2017 was an opportunity for all Uechi-ryu karate practitioners to be on the tatami the Palais Omnisports de Maisons-Laffitte (78). For this 12th edition of the Coupe de France style, not less than 120 technicians and 110 fighters clashed during the day on Saturday.
En kata, a feature has been implemented this year with the separation of male and female senior level by (Kyu and Dan), thus leaving more opportunity for lower ranking of the podium.
Additional pressure weighed on the shoulders of technicians, since they were judged by Master and Master Uechi Kansho Haruki Kawasaki came Okinawa for the occasion, à l’invitation de l’association Uechi-ryu Karate-Do Europe.
Master Uechi Kansho, is the current Soke of the style and the great grand-son of the founder of the school, Kanbun Uechi. The technical quality of each was in any remarkable point and highlighted by these two experts.
The afternoon, place was given to fighters. Regulation in cadets, juniors and seniors requires perfect preparation as the full contact is allowed there, control with fists to the face. The fights were highly contested and tough but always in a great mutual respect. The determination and courage of all were noticed.
Sunday morning, 74 karate all styles came together to follow the teaching of the Masters Kansho Uechi and Haruki Kawasaki. Some did not hesitate to come to Russia, Spain, from England, from Belgium, Portugal or even Australia. For more than 3 hours, the exercises were based on the fundamental principles of the school. Hojo Undo kata and chained themselves under the watchful eye of two sensei.
The leaders directed their thanks all competitors and practitioners for this beautiful moment of sharing. Appointment is given next year for the 13th edition to be held again in Maisons-Laffitte.
