48th ANNUAL WASHINGTON STATE INTERNATIONAL KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Dear Sensei, Coach, and Athlete,

It is with great pleasure and privilege that we invite you to participate in the 48^th Washington State International Karate Championships. This long-running competition has featured some of the best athletes in the world and some of the highest ranking officials in the international arena. We truly appreciate the past support from Senseis, officials, athletes, and volunteers, and hope you will join us again for this exciting event.

The tournament will be held on Sunday, May 15^th at Edmonds Community College Seaview Gymnasium, 20000 68^th West, Lynwood, WA 98036. Registration will open at 8:00am, there will be an officials meeting at 9:00am, and the competition will begin at 10:00am. This competition will provide an excellent competitive opportunity for karate-ka of all ages and levels to test their skills and gain valuable experience. Divisions will be divided according to age and level with medals awarded for the top three places. We will also have team kata and kumite events, along with a Family Team Kata division.

Competitors are required to wear a traditional white gi, and all officials must adhere to the official dress code, which is: grey pants, white shirt, blue tie, blue blazer, and black non-marking soft-soled shoes. For kumite competition, modified WKF/USA-NKF rules will apply. Approved red and blue fistpads, mouthguard, and groin protector (males) are required. Optional equipment includes: approved chest protectors, shin/instep protectors, soft cloth arm guards, athletic safety glasses and headgear (for 13 & under).

Online registration will be available at http://events.wkabellevue.com.

Please feel free to contact Junko Arai at (425) 641-8123 or sensei@wkabellevue.com or Matthew Day at (206)784-3171 or mattday@washingtonkarate.com for any questions.

We look forward to seeing all of you there!

Sincerely,