Portlaoise karate club shines at 47th BKK British Open in Crawley

Portlaoise Kenkyo Dojo enjoyed a remarkable weekend at the 47th BKK British Open-inc, International Federation of Karate 15th Cup of Europe, held in Crawley on October 4.

One of the largest Kyokushin karate tournaments in Europe, the event featured 324 competitors from 33 countries, including professional athletes from across the continent.

Ireland was represented by 19 competitors, with 15 fighters from Portlaoise Kenkyo Dojo taking part. After more than three months of preparation, the Irish team delivered an outstanding performance, securing third place in the overall team classification, a major achievement on the international stage.

Portlaoise’s competitors demonstrated determination, skill, and the true spirit of Kyokushin. While not every student came home with a medal, each displayed courage, discipline, and resilience, gaining valuable experience for future competitions.

Medal winners from Portlaoise Kenkyo Dojo included:

• Tomasz Calka – 1st place, U16 +70kg

• Luna Cardoso – 2nd place, U12 +40kg

• Sophie Cahill – 2nd place, U16 -55kg

• Khadijah Khan – 2nd place, U16 -50kg

• Olivier Ilski – 2nd place, U12 -45kg

• Ibrahim Khan – 2nd place, U16 -65kg

• Samuel Schoenstaedt – 3rd place, U12 -35kg

• Antoni Kucma – 3rd place, U12 -45kg

Other members of the dojo competing included Senpai Muhammad, Senpai Maryam, Justyna Wilk, Kasper Wilk, Ben Ging, Kacper Orlik, and Nelly Jakimczyk, all of whom contributed to the team’s success with strong performances and unwavering support for their teammates.

Coaches Patrycja and Bartosz Calka praised the students for their progress and growing confidence, highlighting the teamwork and spirit displayed throughout the tournament. They also extended thanks to parents, supporters, national coaches, and the tournament organisers for their contributions to the team’s achievements.

Other Irish competitors, including Rachel Dunleavy (1st place), Saorla Keeling (3rd place), Aidan Keeling, and Dimitar Stoyanov, also represented Ireland with distinction at the event.

The 47th BKK British Open proved a memorable experience for Portlaoise Kenkyo Dojo, showcasing the dedication, skill, and competitive spirit of its young athletes on a truly international stage.

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