ISKF-Guyana continued to strengthen its presence on the international karate stage after its instructors and students completed a successful week of training and competition at the ISKF 57th Master Camp and International Goodwill Tournament in the United States.
The event was held from June 12 to 19, 2026, at Camp Green Lane in Philadelphia, USA, and brought together karatekas from several countries for high-level instruction, competition and international exchange.
Guyana’s delegation was led by Chief Instructor and Country Director of ISKF-Guyana, Christopher Chaves, Sensei, Rokudan. He was joined by Instructor Kristian Chaves, Sensei, Sandan, along with students Talitha Kissoon, Jaden Dalgetty, Jasmin Dalgetty, Amia Walcott, Tina Monic and Kareena Singh.
The Guyanese contingent had a productive outing in the competition segment of the camp. In the Adult Goodwill Tournament, Talitha Kissoon and Kristian Chaves both reached the finals, underlining Guyana’s ability to compete among international karate practitioners.
Kristian Chaves also featured in the Male Team Kata and Team Kumite events, where he teamed up with Elijah Elliot of the United States and Joaquin Rotela of Argentina. The trio produced a strong performance, winning gold in Team Kata and silver in Team Kumite.
Guyana’s under-18 students were also in action during the Youth Shiai on June 14. They competed against other young karatekas and received participatory medals, gaining valuable experience in an international setting.
Apart from the tournament, the camp served as an important learning opportunity for the Guyanese group, with the delegation taking part in several days of intensive training under senior ISKF instructors.
ISKF-Guyana expressed appreciation to Hiroyoshi Okazaki Shihan and his team of instructors for what was described as an excellent week of training and development.
Christopher Chaves also represented Guyana at the International Board of Directors meeting held during the camp. At that meeting, it was announced that the World Shotokan Cup 2029 will be staged in Argentina.
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