Cape Dreams News from in and around the Cape
Wynberg to host IKO Africa Selection Tournament and African Team Selection for Japan
HERMAN GIBBS
27 August 2026 — The Wynberg Military Sports Complex in Cape Town is set to come alive with the fierce spirit of competition as it prepares to host the IKO Africa Selection Tournament 2026.
Slated for 25 – 26 September, this two-day event promises to be a monumental gathering of premier Kyokushin karate practitioners from across the African continent, all vying for their chance to represent their countries on the world stage.
This tournament is not only a platform for elite fighters to showcase their skills but also a crucial selection event for the prestigious 14th IKO World Open Karate Tournament, scheduled to be held in Japan in 2027. Athletes will engage in high-level full-contact Kyokushin competition, reflecting the sport’s rigorous demands and deep-rooted traditions.
The tournament programme will also feature a mass student Kyokushin karate demonstration, showcasing students ranging from six-year-old purple belts through to young black belts.
Students will demonstrate a variety of traditional Kyokushin techniques and kata, culminating in tameshiwari – the traditional breaking of wooden boards – as the demonstration’s finale.
The tournament will feature men, women and elite boys and girls aged 15-17 competing in full-contact Kyokushin karate, with no weight divisions. Fighters compete without gloves or shin guards, making this one of the most demanding forms of tournament karate.
The tournament will bring together leading Kyokushin karate competitors from across Africa as they compete for selection to represent Africa at the prestigious 14th IKO World Open Karate Tournament in Japan in 2027.
Kyokushin Kai Kan Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art founded by Sosai Masutatsu Oyama, renowned worldwide for its discipline, resilience, and full-contact competition style.
Unlike many combat sports, Kyokushin tournament fighting is contested without gloves or shin guards, demanding exceptional technique, fitness, courage and self-control. Every bout is a genuine test of physical and mental strength, while maintaining the respect and discipline at the heart of the art.
For more information and media enquiries, contact Amanda Newton at admin@kyokushinkarate.co.za or 082 883 5964.