ACADEMY OF KOEI-KAN KARATE-DO

2024 US International Koei-Kan Karate-Do Championships

Young Black Belt and local Karate students shine at US Karate Nationals. On Sunday May 19, we traveled to St. Elizabeth University in Morristown, NJ. This was the 50th anniversary for one of the longest running international karate tournaments in the country. Sophomore Anthony Leal (San Marcos High) found himself in the finals of the 15 to 17yr old Black Belt Kumite (sparring) Division. With a decisive 7-2 win, Anthony won his first National Title. Anthony’s Sensei, Tony Becerra, said, “ Anthony is a hard worker and always raises to the top in his competitive sports. Anthony has been at it since he was 5yrs old and earned this well deserved title.” Following sparring, Anthony was entered into the Adult Black Belt Kata(forms)Division, and Adult Black Belt Weapons Kata Divisions. With a tough competitive group, representing 6 countries, Anthony placed 3rd in Kata and 4th in Weapons Kata. “I’m not surprised with this young man. I see his commitment daily, whether it’s karate or wrestling, he’s a winner,” said Sensei Becerra. San Marcos High was well represented with Senior Jose Velasquez and Sophomore Ivan Garcia. Jose Placed 2nd in the Adult Green Belt Kumite Division placing behind teammate Marcus Flowers and also, 2nd in Adult Green Belt Kata Division. Sophomore Ivan Garcia fought hard to win a National Championship in 15-17yr old Green Belt Kumite Division. Marcus Flowers and his dad Thom Flowers both brought home National Titles in (Marcus) Adult Green Belt Kumite and(Thom) Adult Black Belt Kumite Division. To Complete the day, Koei-Kan Karate of Santa Barbara placed 2nd in the Team Full Contact Fighting Black competition(Bogu Kumite) with team members including, Thom Flowers, Alan Camez, Marcus Flowers and Jose Velasquez(alternate). Congratulations to of our local competitors!