WKK PNG Shines at Queensland Karate Championship.

(From L-R) WKK PNG Team Manager Raymond Romalus and WKK PNG President Sempai Bernard Soari with Alois Imifunmat, Nathalie Soari, and Tristan Romalus with their spoils at the Aviat Club in Konedobu, Port Moresby (NBC News: Edward Passam)

The newly formed World Kuyokushin Kaikan PNG (WKK PNG) Association did an excellent job at the Queensland State Knockdown Full Contact Kyokushin Karate Championship held on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Four fighters who represented WKK PNG in the tournament are Tristan Romalus from Matupit & Rapitok No.3 Villages, in the Rabaul & Gazelle Districts - East New Britain Province, Cian Carroll from Muliama in the Namatanai District of New Ireland Province & East New Britain Province, Alois Imifunmat from Tanga Island in New Ireland Province, and Nathalie Soari, who is also from Tanga.

The team returned home with great achievements, with Tristan Romalus winning the Under 16 & 17 Title by defeating Sydney fighter Haru Yatsuyangi.

Nathalie Soari earned a silver medal in the women's open Kata event and a bronze medal in the full contact match, where she fought against an experienced black belt Japanese instructor.

Alois Imifunmat put up a strong fight in the open men's full contact but did not secure a place in the top three. Meanwhile, Cian Carroll finished third in the Under 12 category.

As a first-time participant in a big tournament, Tristan Romalus said his achievement came from hard work and self-discipline.

Sempai Bernard Soari, President of WKK PNG, was thrilled with the team's performance, especially since the association was only established six months ago.

He also thanked Sempai Chris Carroll & the executives of WKK PNG, the team manager Raymond Romalus, and all the sponsors for making the trip possible.