Sensei Enver Cakiqi, Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, Sensei Michael Bock

Berlin once again became the meeting place for the international karate scene on the weekend of March 21st and 22nd, 2026. Welcomed the international grandmasters of Shotokan karate

On Friday evening, 30 participants from Berlin and Brandenburg, including brown and black belts, welcomed the aforementioned international grandmasters of Shotokan karate. After a brief round of introductions and a dynamic warm-up, the focus for this advanced level was on the principles of the moment: precision, posture, timing, technique, and above all, the spirit – and how these can be vividly implemented in practice.

Throughout the weekend, intensive training sessions followed with Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, 9th Dan from the USA/Japan, and Sensei Enver Cakiqi, 9th Dan from Albania. Over 260 karateka from various clubs and German states trained side by side and learned directly from the grandmasters.

Meet the grandmasters in person.

On Saturday and Sunday, intermediate and beginner karate students, along with numerous other practitioners, joined the group to meet the grandmasters in person. The program included Kihon, the precise execution of basic techniques from stances and punches to kicks; Kata, prescribed sequences of movements for training timing and concentration; Kumite, partner exercises and sparring for the practical application of techniques; technical combinations to improve agility, speed, and coordination; and the core principles of Shotokan karate, including posture, distance control, reaction time, and the sense for the right moment to strike – all taught practically by the international masters. The principle of “one moment” in Japanese, “Ichigo-Ichi e” was also discussed in detail and then practiced.

A particular highlight was the belt examination, in which 193 candidates – including numerous children, teenagers, and adults from DTSKF clubs – took on the challenge. Under the expert eyes of six DTSKF master examiners, they demonstrated their skills and received new ranks. Of particular note was the examination of Tabea Schulz, who successfully passed her 1st Dan exam.

Berlin became an international meeting place for Shotokan Karate

This weekend, Berlin became an international meeting place for Shotokan Karate. In Müggelheim, on Monday evening, Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, 9th Dan, came to the Berlin-Müggelheim sports hall for a farewell training session, inspiring the students one last time. Technique, tradition, community, and pride in personal achievements merged into an experience that will remain in the memories of all the karate practitioners for a long time. Osu!

Michael Bock

Chief Instructor of the DTSKF

Please check back here on the website for information about the 2027 Traditional Karate Easter Camp.
See you in 2027.

The European Traditional Karate Union (ETKU), in cooperation with the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) and hosted by the Traditional Karate Association Serbia, has the great pleasure of inviting you to participate in the:

38th ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship
& European Children’s Cup 2026

📍 Location: Novi Sad, Serbia
📅 Date: April 30 – May 3, 2026
👥 Categories: Children, Cadets, Juniors, Youth, Seniors, Veterans

Premier ITKF Traditional Karate Event in Europe

The 38th ETKU European Championship is one of the most important ITKF Traditional Karate events in Europe. This championship represents excellence in:

-Traditional Kata and Kumite
-Technical precision under official ITKF rules
-Discipline, respect, and perseverance
-International friendship and cooperation

As an official ITKF Traditional Karate competition, the event guarantees high organizational standards and authentic traditional karate values.

Novi Sad – A City of Culture, Unity, and Tradition

Located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, Novi Sad offers a unique and inspiring setting for this prestigious championship. Known for its rich cultural heritage, openness, and vibrant spirit, the city provides the perfect backdrop for an event that goes beyond competition.

This championship celebrates:
– Reflection and unity
– Shared European values
– The preservation of traditional karate principles
– The strengthening of our international karate community

More Than a Competition – A Commitment to Traditional Karate

Participation in the ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship 2026 means more than striving for medals. It represents:

– Investment in the education and development of athletes
– Exchange of knowledge and experience among nations
– Support for youth development through traditional karate
– Strengthening the future of ITKF Traditional Karate in Europe

Each competitor contributes to preserving tradition while building a shared future based on mutual respect and common values.

Invitation to All National Federations

On behalf of ETKU, President Slobodan Milicevic cordially invites all national federations and countries to participate with the highest possible number of competitors. Together, we will make this championship a true tribute to our art, our community, and our shared karate spirit.

——

We sincerely look forward to welcoming you to Novi Sad, Serbia, from April 30 to May 3, 2026.

38th ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship & European Children’s Cup 2026. An Official ITKF Traditional Karate Event

With deepest respect and kind regards.

Should you require any additional information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We look forward to welcoming you to Novi Sad, Serbia, and to a successful and memorable event.

Organizing Committee
European Championship in Traditional Karate – Novi Sad 2026
European Children’s Cup – Novi Sad 2026
info@stks.rs

——

Downloads:

Invitation:

ITKF-ETKU-Novi-Sad-Serbia_2026.pdf

Accommodation arrangements for participants:
The document contains details about the official hotels, booking procedures, and other relevant information to help you organize your stay in Novi Sad during the event.

Accommodation_European Traditional Karate Championship_Novi Sad 2026.pdf

The ITKF cannot be stopped

1st ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 Strengthens Global Traditional Karate

ITKF International Traditional Karate Congress 2026 in Malaga-Fuengirola, Spain

From February 13 to 16, 2026, the first ITKF Winter Master Camp for instructors was successfully held in Malaga-Fuengirola, Spain. Organized by Sensei Ruben Cernuda, the event marked a major milestone for the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) and its global development strategy.

Sensei Ruben Cernuda ITKF

The camp was led by Sensei Richard Jorgensen (9th Dan), Chairman of the ITKF, who served as Chief Training Director. With participants from eight nations and the full presence of the ITKF Board of Directors, the event demonstrated the growing international momentum of ITKF Traditional Karate.

Focus on ITKF Standardization and Technical Excellence

A central objective of the ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 was the standardization of traditional karate according to the training program of Hidetaka Nishiyama. The ITKF continues to preserve and promote Nishiyama’s lineage, emphasizing technical precision, self-defense application, and unified global teaching standards.

In alignment with the regulations of the Hidetaka Nishiyama Karate Institute (HNKI), detailed discussions were conducted regarding:

– ITKF championship organization
– Global instructor certification standards
– Harmonized training guidelines
– Long-term technical leadership within Traditional Shotokan Karate

Sensei Jorgensen introduced newly developed instructor documents designed to further unify ITKF teaching methodology worldwide.

High-Level Technical Program: Kihon, Kata, Kumite & Budo

The technical curriculum reflected the classical ITKF training structure:

– Kihon (Basics) – precision, posture, and body mechanics
– Kata (Forms) – structure, rhythm, and application
– Kumite (Sparring) – timing, distance, and strategy
– Budo Philosophy – deeper understanding of martial principles

Special emphasis was placed on Kime, breathing techniques, Ki-ai, and the practical self-defense application of techniques. Sensei Jorgensen skillfully demonstrated the inseparable connection between Kihon, Kata, and Kumite—core principles of ITKF Traditional Karate.

Sensei Richard Jorgensen ITKF

During afternoon sessions, students were integrated into the program. This allowed instructors to apply and demonstrate structured ITKF teaching methods in real training environments.

ITKF Board Meeting & Global Expansion

On February 15, 2026, the second ITKF Board of Directors meeting took place. All discussions confirmed the organization’s clear and unified commitment to the teachings and technical standards established by Sensei Nishiyama.

A significant decision during the camp was the official admission of:

– State of Knights – Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem – Knights of Malta – Federation of the Autonomous Priories (KMFAP), under the leadership of Michael Bock.

This expansion reflects the continuous international growth of the ITKF and its mission to strengthen Traditional Karate worldwide.

ITKF Europe: Malaga as Future Winter Camp Base

The success of the 1st ITKF Winter Master Camp has positioned Malaga as a potential permanent European base for future ITKF winter events. Thanks to the strong organizational support of local instructors and the outstanding technical leadership, the camp created a highly professional yet friendly training atmosphere.

The spirit of unity, discipline, and technical excellence demonstrated that the ITKF is steadily regaining its former global strength.

ITKF 2026 Outlook: Stronger, United, and Growing

The ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 clearly showed:

– Growing international participation
– Strong technical leadership
– Commitment to Nishiyama lineage
– Structured global instructor standardization
– Expanding ITKF membership worldwide

As ITKF Secretary General Michael Bock summarized: “The ITKF cannot be stopped.”

With a clear technical direction, international unity, and dedication to Traditional Karate, the International Traditional Karate Federation continues to move forward—stronger than ever.

ITKF International Traditional Karate Summer Camp 2026 – Niagara Falls, Canada

The ITKF International Traditional Karate Summer Camp will be held 2026 in the Niagara Falls region of Ontario, Canada. The program follows the technical guidelines established by Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama, focusing on Traditional Karate as self-defence, Budo training, and holistic personal development.

Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama

In addition to technical training, the camp includes Traditional Karate competition (Shi-ai) and opportunities for international coach, referee, and Dan certification for eligible participants. The camp is directed by Sensei Richard Jorgensen with the support of the ITKF Technical Committee. Space is limited and early registration is recommended.

Participation:

Minimum recommended rank 3rd Kyu; ITKF membership or approval required.
All Camp participants must complete the official Application Form and submit all fees to the
ITKF Administrative office via email, itkf@itkf.org;

Related files:

ITKF Summer Camp Registration Form 2026 here
Letter Bord of Directors ITKF Summer Camp 2026 here
2026 ITKF Summer Camp – Niagara Region, Canada here
2026 International Summer Camp of ITKF Application / Anouncement here
2026 Banking Payment Information here

From February 13–16, 2026, the International Traditional Karate Congress of the ITKF will take place in Mijas, Málaga, Spain. This special event brings together renowned masters of traditional karate: Sensei Richard Jorgensen, Sensei Michael Bock, Sensei Ruben Cernuda, Sensei Slobodan Milicevic, Sensei John P. Kataoka, and Sensei Dariusz Bajkowski. The congress is dedicated to international exchange, technical development, and the shared values of traditional karate.

Special training sessions for instructors, examiners, and karate practitioners in general.
Maintaining the high integrity of the ITKF’s technical approach.

In addition to this congress, we will have special training sessions for instructors, examiners, and karate practitioners in general. This event aims to lay the foundations for the future of traditional karate.
The objective of this seminar is to familiarize our most experienced members and their designated instructors with the technical requirements of the ITKF and to analyze the qualification requirements from 1st Dan to 6th Dan. This will contribute to maintaining the high integrity of the ITKF’s technical approach. Its aim is to clearly and unequivocally distinguish us from other, fraudulent ITKF organizations.

ITKF Summer Camp, Canada in July 2026

ITKF Summer Camp with Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama, San Diego, California

This Congress & Seminar allows our experienced members to obtain ITKF examiner qualifications and thus prepare the next generation of instructors. It also serves as a prelude to the ITKF Summer Camp, which will be held in Canada in July 2026. There, we will be summarizing the annual technical program of the ITKF International Summer Camp, an event previously held every summer in San Diego under the supervision of Sensei Nishiyama.

Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama and Sensei Michael Bock ITKF Summer Camp, San Diego (USA)

Registration International Traditional Karate Congress of the ITKF

For registration, you can contact ITKF Spain directly (iskahq@gmail.com) or register a few hours before the event begins at the entrance to the sports center.

The technical panel of the Congress & Seminar will be led by the following Senseis:

• Sensei Richard Jorgensen (Canada) 9th Dan – President of ITKF & Chief Instructor
• Sensei Michael Bock 8th Dan (Germany) – Secretary General of ITKF
• Sensei Slobodan Milicevic 8th Dan (Serbia) – President of ETKF
• Sensei Rubén Cernuda 8th Dan (Spain) – Director of ITKF Pan America
• Sensei Stojan Sestan 8th Dan (Slovenia) – Vice President of ETKF
• Sensei Dariusz Bajkowski 8th Dan (Poland) – President of the Education Committee
• Sensei John Price Kataoka 6th Dan (Japan) – Director of ITKF Asia
• Sensei Dave Smith 6th Dan (Canada) – Vice-president ITKF Pan American, Director of development North America

The Sri Lanka Traditional Karate Federation (SLTKF) has begun efforts to secure the hosting rights for the inaugural South Asian Traditional Karate Championship in 2026. Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo at 1st of December, former SLTKF President and current chief consultant W.J.B. Dedunupitiya said that discussions are already underway with traditional karate officials from all South Asian nations to ensure their participation in the event. Affiliated with the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF), the SLTKF has been active in Sri Lanka since 1993, marking more than three decades of involvement in the sport. read more

Michael Bock was confirmed in his position as Secretary General of the ITKF.

In 2025, Michael Bock was officially elected Technical President of the newly named ETKU (European Traditional Karate Union), the direct successor organization to the ETKF, which was founded in Italy in 1991. He was also confirmed in his position as Secretary General of the ITKF.

Attendees:
Mr. Richard Jorgensen, Chairman of the ITKF
Mr. Michael Bock, Secretary General of the ITKF
Mr. Slobodan Milicevic for Europe (ETKU)
Mr. John Price-Kataoka for Asia
Mr. David Smith for North America
Ms. Dr. Marlis Misfeldt Chairman ITKF Medical Committee
Mr. Dariusz Bajkowski Chairman of Education of the ITKF

Excused Persons:
Ruben Cernuda, Spain – Responsible (South America)

Traditional Karate Federation Slovenia – here

Meeting report 1st Meeting ETKU –  Executive Board April  9, 2025 here
Protokoll Bord of directors meeting ITKF Executive Board (Election) April  9, 2025 here

Experience traditional karate in Berlin – karate in its pure form

Experience karate in its pure, traditional form: dynamic, powerful and full of passion! Be inspired by thrilling fights, impressive kata demonstrations and a rousing atmosphere. Be there when the best of the best fight for the titles in Berlin-Köpenick!

A sporting event, a competition full of athletic highlights awaits you in Berlin-Köpenick!

Look forward to a sporting event full of sporting highlights, fair international competition and cultural encounters. Whether as a participant or spectator of the championships – become part of this karate experience! We look forward to seeing you and to exciting competitions! With best regards, The Orga Team Berlin

Save the Date: 10. – 13. April 2025 – Berlin is calling!
www.karate-berlin-2025.com