The Way
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Okinawa: The roots of Karate
The roots of Karate are ancient though general practice begins in the early 20th century in Okinawa island schools as part of physical education. The word Karate is defined in the early 30’s as “the way of the empty hand” as a reference to a weapon-free martial art, focusing on its peaceful and sporting essence.
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Japan: Today's Karate
Since the middle of 20th century, Karate as a sport organizes through National Federations spreading worldwide, especially during the 70’s, conforming the basic rules that will govern Karate as a sport.
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Lausanne: IOC recognizes Karate
In 1999, Karate joins the International Olympic Committee recognized sports and begins its way to be part of the Olympic Games Programme.
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Singapore 2005: 1st Olympic bid
After the exit of baseball and softball, Karate is named in Singapore as candidate sport, but did not reach the 66% of the votes necessary. Close to the goal.
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Copenhagen 2009: 2nd Olympic bid
Karate improved as a sport and made its second Olympic bid in a row. Most voted sport in the first round, Karate is finally defeated by the two selected sports: Golf and Rugby 7.
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Tenerife 2012: Launching “The K is on the Way”
Tenerife and the EKF European Championships are the milestones where the Way of Karate takes a new start. New improvements and new supports made Karate a spectacular sport with that huge amount of followers and Olympic values.
