PKF Senior Championships Day 1: USA Leads with Three Gold Medals
5/24/2024
Continental Championships
The first day of the PKF Senior Championships kicked off with spectacular performances as the first new continental champions in six categories were crowned. The United States led the medal tally, clinching three gold medals. Here's a detailed look at the winners of each category:
Female Kata: Sakura Kokumai Wins Outstanding 10th Crown
Sakura Kokumai of the United States triumphed in the Female Kata category, securing her 10th continental crown and fourth consecutive title. Kokumai delivered a stunning performance, scoring 42.20 points to defeat Brazil's Gabrielle Henrique, who scored 40.30. Kokumai, who is an Olympian and former World Championships bronze medalist, solidifies her status as a dominant force in the discipline in the continent.
Male Kata: Ariel Torres of the United States Continues Ruling
In the Male Kata category, Ariel Torres of the United States emerged victorious, beating his compatriot Gakuji Tozaki with a score of 43.10 to 42.10. This win marks Torres' fifth continental crown, further establishing his dominance in the category. Torres is an Olympic bronze medallist and current World Championships bronze medallist.
Female Kumite -68 kg: Janessa Michelle Fonseca Wins First Title
Janessa Michelle Fonseca of Puerto Rico won the Female Kumite -68 kg category, defeating Anastasiia Velozo of Chile with a score of 2-1. This victory is particularly significant for Fonseca as it is her first senior continental title in her first continental final, adding to her previous U21 continental crown from 2019.
Female Kumite 68+ kg: Brenda Padilha Pereira Takes Second Title
Brenda Padilha Pereira of Brazil claimed her second continental title in the Female Kumite 68+ kg category by defeating Javiera Gonzalez of Chile 4-1. Pereira, who previously won the crown in 2022, showcased her experience and skill, dominating the match.
Male Kumite -84 kg: Fabian Huaiquiman Adds Title to World Championships Silver Medal
Fabian Huaiquiman of Chile earned his first continental title in the Male Kumite -84 kg category with a commanding 9-1 victory over Anderson Soriano of the Dominican Republic. After winning a bronze in 2019, Huaiquiman's breakthrough performance displayed his growth and determination, adding the crown to the silver medal at the 2021 World Championships.
Male Kumite 84+ kg: Brian Irr Completes Successful Day for United States
Brian Irr of the United States captured his third continental title in the Male Kumite 84+ kg category by defeating Rob Timmermans of Curacao 9-2. Having previously won in 2018 and 2022, Irr's victory on the opening day reinforces his position as one of the top competitors in his weight class, and it wraps up a successful day for the delegation of the United States.
The first day of the PKF Senior Championships in Punta del Este set a thrilling start for the competition, with athletes showcasing their skill and determination. The tournament continues Friday with day 2 of actions from Uruguay.
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(Pictures: Gokhan Taner)
