Malta represented by local Karate school, SKSM Karate, was among 10 other countries which participated in the second International Open Championships which were held in Ariano Irpinio, Italy, recently.

The Maltese team achieved extremely good results in this tournament which had an entry field of over 420 athletes from 23 different organizations. Countries participated included Slovacia, Romania, Israel, Switzerland, Italy, Palestine and Malta amongst others.

The SKSM squad consisting of six athletes and was headed by SKSM national Karate coach Chris Galea, included one Junior and one Senior team, have been undergoing intense training for the past months.

The team consisted of Lucienne Galea, Lydia Schembri, Natasha Fenech, David Gauci, Michael J. Grima and Andrew Galea.

Seven gold medals, three silver and four bronze were the final official results, which also included two gold medals for both Junior and Seniors teams in the team Kata events.

Coach Chris Galea was more than satisfied by the commitment shown by all his students.

Immediately after these championships, another intensive programme is being set up for the preparation of another five international meetings till the end of this year.

Also in a few weeks time SKSM will be holding the third edition of the Alan Gauci Memorial Kata Championships, Seniors Kumite tournaments and the SKSM Juniors and Cadets Nationals.

Presently SKSM Karate School is accepting new entrants (children and adults) at its training centre in Mosta, where Karate and Self Defence lessons are conducted every day. Those interested may phone on 21451906, 7953 7924 or one can visit the school’s new website on www.sksm-karate-malta.com