Torres, Kneer, Talibov, and Zapata Shine on Opening Day of Karate 1-Series A in Salzburg
9/14/2024
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The final Karate 1-Series A event of the season kicked off in Salzburg with a thrilling first day of competition. Leading the way to gold were Ariel Torres, Johanna Kneer, Rizvan Talibov, and Valentina Zapata, each delivering standout performances in their respective categories.
Female Kata: Zapata Claims First Senior Title
Colombia’s Valentina Zapata triumphed in the Female Kata category, defeating France’s Helvetia Taily with a score of 42.80 to 40.70. The current PKF bronze medallist, Zapata, secured her first senior competition title, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Male Kata: Olympic Games Bronze Medallist Torres Takes Gold
Ariel Torres of the United States secured his first gold of the season in the Male Kata category, overcoming Japan’s Eiji Otsuki with a score of 43.30 to 41.50. Torres, the Olympic bronze medallist and current PKF champion, showcased the form that has made him a dominant force this season.
Male Kumite +84 kg: Talibov Continues to Impress
Ukraine’s Rizvan Talibov added another gold to his collection, defeating Ondrej Bosak of the Czech Republic 4-1 in the Male Kumite +84 kg final. This marks Talibov’s second gold of the season after his triumph at the Karate 1-Premier League event in Casablanca.
Female Kumite +68 kg: Kneer’s Impressive Run Continues
Germany’s Johanna Kneer continued her winning streak, claiming gold in the Female Kumite +68 kg category by defeating Belgium’s Ophelie Mulolo 3-2. Kneer’s performance in Salzburg caps off an incredible season, adding to her previous wins at the Karate 1-Premier League events in Antalya and Cairo. She also holds the Continental title, making her one of the most consistent karatekas of the year.
The excitement is far from over as the finals are available live on the WKF YouTube channel. Stay tuned for more action from Salzburg as the season comes to a thrilling close.