The annual summer camp took place at the Willisau Sports Centre from 19 to 22 July.
The five-hour grading exam began before noon, testing all candidates for their next rank on kihon, kata, understanding of Kyokushinkai karate, and physical fitness. In the evening, the first joint training session was held, with Shihan Edi teaching both familiar and new techniques in a varied and demanding way.
On Sunday, the first training session started early in groups, ensuring everyone could benefit as much as possible. The two further sessions were held under the motto “World Champion Day”:
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In the morning, Senpai Ramon Pfändler (World Champion Kata) shared his knowledge and training methods for optimising kata. He also introduced the challenge of team kata, where groups of three presented their performances, revealing many promising combinations.
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In the afternoon, Senpai Angela Felber (World Champion Kumite) led a combat training session. After the warm-up, she presented a range of training methods that were dynamic and inspiring—complete with music that sparked both enthusiasm and the occasional hip swing.
Both sessions were excellent and refreshing, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to our champions for their valuable time and input!
After dinner, the coloured belts enjoyed the indoor swimming pool, while the brown and black belts focused on kata and grading skills during the referee course.
On Monday, group training continued, covering kihon and kata under the guidance of various shihans, allowing participants to benefit from different approaches. After lunch, the traditional 30-man/woman kumite took place, where everyone tested their skills against different opponents and applied their newly gained knowledge.
The camp highlight followed that evening with the Sayonara Party—this year with a Wild West theme. Cowboys, Indians, horse lovers, and other characters gathered in the saloon to enjoy the evening’s programme. Hidden talents such as hobby horsing, line dancing, public speaking, and even cinematic performances entertained everyone and made the night fly by.
Tuesday morning marked the conclusion of the camp with a short training session, followed by the graduation ceremony. Beforehand, participants watched the individual katas of the Sandan candidates, each of whom demonstrated their understanding of Kyokushinkai karate about their journeys and character.
The exam results were then announced. Congratulations to the following:
10th Kyu
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Kohai Emma Zlatunic
1st Dan
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Senpai Bekzhan Altaev
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Senpai Martin Berlinger
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Senpai Erich-Andreas Bürgisser
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Senpai Roland Konrad
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Senpai Hildegard Merkel
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Senpai Ciprian Tantu
2nd Dan
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Senpai Nadja Gansner
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Senpai Simone Muntwyler
3rd Dan
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Sensei Sina Burri
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Sensei Fabio De Patre
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Sensei Angela Felber
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Sensei Fabia Franck
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Sensei Anita Klaus
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Sensei Roland Müller
Promotions for service to IFK Switzerland
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Sensei Simon Birrer, 4th Dan
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Sensei Markus Graziano, 4th Dan
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Shihan Philipp Halter, 5th Dan
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Shihan Dolores Emmengger-Jaros, 6th Dan
We warmly congratulate all on their achievements and thank them for their dedication. OSU!
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to all camp participants for their spirit and energy, which once again created an incredible atmosphere. We are already looking forward to next year’s camp!
OSU,
IFK Switzerland Kyokushinkai
