Kate to the 2024 WKF Junior World Karate Championship in Italy

My name is Kate Sung, I’m a 16 year old karate kata athlete, and I have been selected to represent New Zealand at the 2024 WKF Junior World Karate Championship in Italy this October.

Ever since starting karate late 2016, I’ve been training with my karate family at Kentokukan NZ in Auckland, world class senseis and athletes overseas. I’ve competed at various international championships and medalled in all such as the Oceania Championships (AUS, NCL), Australian Open and K1 Youth League (ITA). Two years ago at my first junior worlds in Turkey, I unfortunately lost to Turkey in the bronze medal match, finishing 5th overall in the Cadet category. Although this result was devastating as I was so close to bringing home a bronze, I have never been so happy with my achievement and more motivated to train harder.

Your support to my previous journey in 2022 has encouraged me to give it my all and ultimately supported my family and I so much -words cannot express how grateful we are.

This year’s Worlds marks my second opportunity as NZ’s top female kata athlete in 16/17 and top3 in women’s to represent the fern on my chest with pride. The world stage is definitely a massive challenge, competing against other #1 national athletes from around the world.

Karate athletes in NZ receive very limited funding. Given this opportunity to represent NZ once again, I am reaching out for your support. Any donation no matter how big or small towards my journey will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Kate