Japan¡¯s elite karateka have had a tough 2020 as they¡¯ve struggled with a long break from competitions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
But when they step onto the mat at the renovated Nippon Budokan for the national championship on Sunday, they¡¯ll be looking to deliver their top performances with the Tokyo Olympics in mind.
Ryo Kiyuna, the eight-time reigning king in the men¡¯s kata, has not competed since the Paris meet of the Karate-1 Premier League circuit. But he¡¯s taken his time off in stride and looks forward to competing before a crowd at the sacred martial arts venue.
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