"It is our intention to further extend the dynamism and innovation that have always distinguished the World

Karate Authority"

A Sport for all

As Karate world is going through times of unprecedented progress and expansion, it is our intention to further extend the dynamism and innovation that have always distinguished the World Karate Authority.

The inclusion of our sport in the programmes of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 and the Youth Olympic Games Buenos Aires 2018 is nothing less than the most notable results of years of hard work in our intention of taking Karate to a new era. With the idea in mind of using our collective effort to continue driving our sport to its dazzling future, we have updated all our structures in order to bring Karate to an even brighter tomorrow.

The new and up-to-date official website of the World Karate Authority aims at achieving exactly this goal, while creating an open window for Karate fans around the world to be abreast of the exciting times for our discipline.

As president of the WKA, I hope that all of you who visit this website enjoy its modern features, such as its greater visual impact and its adaptability to different devices. I am confident that together with WKA Social Media Channels, WKA.NET will be the meeting point for all those who appreciate our sport, so we all can contribute to Karate’s evolution.

Prof. Dr. HANSHI DYBENDU NAG Prof. Dr. HANSHI PRASENJIT BANERJEE

President Secretary General

World Karate Authority World Karate Authority

HEADQUARTERS Avenida de Filipinas 50. Escalera 2 1ºA

28003. Madrid (Spain).

WKF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President: 1st Vice President: General Secretary:

General Treasurer: 2nd Vice President: 3rd Vice President: Vice President & Commissioner for Paris 2024 Olympic Games:

Vice President and IKA rep. Vice President and AKA rep.: Vice President & Commissioner for Para-Karate and Refugees: Executive Vice President: Ass. Gen. Treasurer:

Ass. Gen. Secretary:

Member: Member: Member and IKA rep.:

Member:

Member: Member and AKA rep.:

Member: Member: Member:

Member:

Honorary President: Honorary Member:

WKA COMMISSIONS

MEDICAL COMMISSION

ENTOURAGE COMMISSION (...)

DISCIPLINARY & LEGAL COMMISSION

TECHNICAL COMMISSION

WKF STRATEGY AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

COMPETITION RULES COMMISSION

REFEREE COMMISSION (...)

RANKING COMMISSION

SPORTS COMMISSION

ORGANISING COMMISSION

OLYMPIC PLANNING COMMISSION

OLYMPIC STRATEGY COMMISSION

PROTOCOL COMMISSION

ATHLETES COMMISSION (...)

PARA-KARATE COMMISSION

TOKYO 2020 COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

WORLD KARATE AUTHORITY STATUTES INDEX PAGE

INDEX PAGE

ART. 1- CONSTITUTION AND OBJECTS.....................................................................................................3

ART. 2- STRUCTURE .....................................................................................................................................4

ART. 3- ECONOMICAL RESOURCES ..........................................................................................................4

ART. 4- ASSETS ..............................................................................................................................................5

ART. 5- AFFILIATION AND DISAFFILIATION OF NATIONAL FEDERATIONS ……………………..5

ART. 6- RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF MEMBER COUNTRIES .....................................................................7

ART. 7- INDIVIDUALS....................................................................................................................................9

ART. 8- RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF INDIVIDUALS ....................................................................................9

ART. 9- ACCEPTANCE AND OBLIGATIONS ............................................................................................9

ART. 10- ELIGIBILITY - CANDIDATURES – INCOMPATIBILITY........................................................10

ART. 11- ORGANISATION...........................................................................................................................11

ART. 12- CONGRESS....................................................................................................................................11

ART. 13- EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE..........................................................................................................16

ART. 14- PRESIDENT....................................................................................................................................21

ART. 15- FINANCES, ACCOUNTS AND AUDITING................................................................................22

ART. 16- COMMISSIONS..............................................................................................................................22

ART. 17- RULES AND REGULATIONS......................................................................................................23

ART. 18- HONORARY PRESIDENT AND HONORARY MEMBERS .....................................................23

ART. 19- PRIZES AND REWARDS ...........................................................................................................24

ART. 20- DAN GRADES ..............................................................................................................................24

ART. 21- PRINCIPLES OF SPORTING JUSTICE ......................................................................................24

ART. 22- AMENDMENTS TO THE STATUTES........................................................................................25

ART. 23- DISSOLUTION...............................................................................................................................26

ART. 1- CONSTITUTION AND OBJECTS

1.1 The World Karate Authority, hereafter referred to as "WKA", is a permanent organisation governing all

styles of karate with a legal status founded on the 16th of June 1970 (with the name of World Union of

Karate Do Organisations / WUKO) and is composed by the National Karate Federations affiliated at

worldwide level.

1.2. The seat and legal domicile of the WKA shall be based in the country of residence of the elected

President, unless otherwise decided by the Executive Committee. The current seat and domicile is in Spain,

Madrid, Avenida de Filipinas 50.

1.3 The WKA does not engage in matters pertaining to politics, religion, or race, and is a non-profit

organisation.

1.4 The WKA performs its activity on an amateur basis in compliance with the principles set forth in the

Olympic Charter.

1.5 The WKA has sole proprietorship of the logo of WKA and its use. All rights for the use of the WKA

logo and name for purposes of fabrication or sale of articles bearing the name or logo of WKA (such as

flags, medals, diplomas, badges, shields, ties, gadgets, and similar objects) rests exclusively with the WKA.

1.6 The official languages of the WKA shall be English and French. All official WKA publications must be

edited in English, French and Spanish. At Congresses simultaneous translation shall be provided in these 3

(three) languages. In the event of disputes, the decision shall be based on the English text.

1.7 The WKA has the aim of promoting, organising, regulating and popularising the sport of karate all over

the world, of protecting the physical and mental health of the athletes, of contributing to the development of

friendly relationships among the National Federations and of defending the interests of karate throughout the

world.

1.8 The WKA will organise the World Karate Championships in collaboration with the member Federations.

The right to organise World Championships and other official WKA events shall be only granted to such

National Federations that are able to receive all the eligible participants and delegates on their territory, in

full compliance with WKA anti-doping and safety regulations and standards as well as with the World

Anti-Doping Code (“WADA Code”) and standards.

1.9 The WKA will make all efforts possible to get karate accepted in the Olympic Games and in all other

Games of the Olympic cycle and remain in the programme of the mentioned events once included.

1.10 The WKA aims to adopt and implement the WADA Code, as well as to ensure its compliance by the

National Federations.

ART. 2- STRUCTURE

2.1 The members of the WKA are the National Karate Federations recognised by the WKA and affiliated to

it. The National Federations may also be members of Regional or Continental Federations or Associations of

National Federations affiliated with WKA, in order to participate in, or supervise the organisation of

Regional or Continental karate competitions, including Regional or Continental Games. The WKA may

recognise such Regional or Continental Federations or Associations. Such recognition shall in no way affect

the right of the WKA to deal directly with each National Federation and vice versa.

2.2 The WKA recognises in principle 5 (five) Continental Federations (Africa, America, Asia, Europe and

Oceania). The Continental Federations shall collaborate with the WKA within their areas of jurisdiction to

the best of their ability, adhering to the WKA regulations and standards, recognising the supreme authority

of the WKA in all matters related to the sport of karate. They shall also forward to the WKA a full annual

report on the competitive, organisational and promotional activities undertaken.

2.3 The Statutes of the Continental Federations shall conform to the principles of the WKA Statutes.

ART. 3- ECONOMICAL RESOURCES

3.1 The WKA shall pursue its institutional goals by means of revenues deriving from the membership and

other yearly fees, competition entry fees, courses and exams, the organisation of official competitions, the

issue of licences and diplomas, fines, bequests and donations, sponsorship, radio, television, video, Internet

and photographic rights, royalties and any other form of income providing it has been approved by the

Executive Committee. All the radio, television, video, Internet and photographic rights of the WKA

championships and other international events organised by the WKA shall be the exclusive property of the

WKA. These rights may not be sold or negotiated without agreement of the Executive Committee, which

may delegate its authority to negotiate the sale or use of these rights, but which shall support the sole

responsibility for the final decision and for the use of the income from the sale of the rights.

3.2 The budget, adjustments to the budget, and the final balance-sheet, approved by the Executive

Committee, and the reports of the WKA President, the General Secretary, the General Treasurer and the

appointed Auditors must be approved by the Congress.

ART. 4- ASSETS

4.1 All existing WKA assets must be included in an inventory ledger kept by the General Treasurer and

certified by an Auditor.

ART. 5- AFFILIATION AND DISAFFILIATION OF NATIONAL FEDERATIONS

5.1 The affiliation of a National Federation by the WKA will be granted in accordance with these Statutes.

5.2 National Federations wishing to be recognised by and subsequently affiliated to the WKA must be an

independent organisation in their own country. The President and the other members of the Executive

Committee of a National Federation must be democratically elected and hold the citizenship of their own

National Federation country. Governments or other public authorities shall not designate any members of a

National Federation. However, a National Federation may decide, at its discretion, to elect as members

representatives of such authorities.

5.3 A country is defined as an independent State recognised by the International Community. The name of

the National Federation must reflect the territorial extent and traditional name of its country and shall be

subject to the approval of the WKF.

5.4 Only 1 (one) National Federation per country shall be affiliated with WKA.

5.5 The area of jurisdiction of a National Federation must coincide with the limits of the country in which it

is established and has its headquarters.

5.6 The right of provisional affiliation or disaffiliation or of the suspension of National Federations or

Associations rests with the Executive Committee of the WKA, while the Congress shall decide on the

permanent affiliation or disaffiliation of a National Federation or of an Association.

5.7 National Federations wishing to be affiliated to the WKA must send to the General Secretary, together

with the relative application fee payment, which in the event of acceptance of the application will be applied

to the first year’s membership fee, a complete dossier of documents giving detailed information on the

standing and capacity of the National Federation including a copy of the latest Audited Financial Statement

(unless the organisation has not yet completed its first fiscal year). This dossier must include the Statutes and

the Rules and Regulations of the applicant Federation and documentation of any acknowledgement by the

National Olympic Committee or the Highest Sport Authority of the country.

The membership fee payment shall be in the form of a bank cheque or bank transfer and of such amount as

specified by the WKA. This payment must be cleared at the WKA bank before membership may proceed.

5.8 The affiliation will be decided after the examination of the Statutes of the National Federation and their

compatibility with those of the WKA. The approval of an applicant National Federation’s Statutes by the

WKA Executive Committee is required for affiliation. The same applies to any subsequent change or

amendment to the Statutes of a National Federation that will also have to be approved by the WKA

Executive Committee. Such Statutes shall, at all times, conform to the WKA Statutes and make explicit

reference to the affiliation to WKA and to the acceptance and subordination to the WKA Statutes. If there is

any doubt as to the meaning or interpretation of the Statutes of a National Federation or if there is a

contradiction between such Statutes and WKA Statutes, the latter take precedence.

5.9 Also the Rules and Regulations of the National Federations members shall conform to WKA Rules,

Regulations and standards. WKA only recognises as official national titles won in competitions where WKA

Competition Rules are applied in their entirety, including the official modalities and categories.

5.10 If more than one National Federation claim for their affiliation with WKA, the Executive Committee

will decide on the provisional affiliation of a National Federation and the Congress will ultimately decide on

its permanent affiliation. The provisional and permanent affiliation shall be granted, at the entire discretion

of the Executive Committee and the Congress, respectively, taking into account the capacity of the National

Federation to provide the best guarantees for the representation and development of the sport in its country.

5.11 Affiliation shall be deemed "provisional" when it has been accepted by the Executive Committee. Once

accepted and only then, the Executive Committee will decide on submission of the application to the

Ordinary Congress. Provisional affiliation will automatically expire 2 (two) years after the Executive

Committee has granted it. Only the Executive Committee is empowered to award any extension to any

provisional affiliation which has so expired. Provisionally affiliated National Federations shall enjoy all

rights, except voting rights. Once ratified by the Ordinary Congress, the affiliation shall be considered

permanent and shall confer the right to vote 2 (two) years after the Congress at which it were ratified.

5.12 Following Rule 29 and Bye-Laws to Rules 28 & 29 of the Olympic Charter, the WKA will

communicate the provisional and permanent affiliation or disaffiliation of a National Federation to the

National Olympic Committee and the Highest Sports Authority of the country in question. Rule 29 of the

Olympic Charter will apply for the recognition of a National Federation (NF) by a national Olympic

committee (NOC). (References to the Olympic Charter are based on the 15 September 2017 version). Rule

28 of the Olympic Charter (2 August 2016 Version), “Composition of the NOCs” will also apply while

Karate is part of the programme of the Olympic Games and WKA NFs shall make their best efforts to

implement this rule in their country for the benefit of Karate.

5.13 A National Federation may request the termination of its affiliation by giving notice in writing and

registered mail to the WKA, at least 6 months before the end of the calendar year. The Membership fee for

the year in question shall be due to the WKA. The termination is without prejudice to WKA’s rights to claim

for compensation of any damages resulting there from.

5.14 The WKA Executive Committee may take any appropriate decisions for the protection of the sport of

Karate and of the image and reputation of WKA in the country of an NF, including the provisional

suspension of or provisional disaffiliation of such NF in case of termination by the latter of its affiliation or

if the constitution, law or other regulations in force in the country concerned, or any act by any

governmental or other body causes the activity of the NF or the making or expression of its will to be

hampered.

5.15 National Federations are prohibited from being affiliated with any karate organisation not recognised

by WKA. They also prohibited from having any sporting relationships with such non-recognised

organisations or with any suspended WKA National Federation. Non-compliance with this prohibition

would give rise to disciplinary sanctions. Illegal double affiliation would constitute just grounds for

disaffiliation from WKA.

5.16 Ultimately, the Executive Committee and the Congress may, respectively, at their entire discretion,

reconsider the affiliation and disaffiliate, provisionally or permanently, a National Federation, in particular

in case of changes in the National Federation’s Statutes without WKA’s approval, in case of violation of

these Statutes or of the law, or for any other cause affecting the democracy of the sporting processes or the

image and reputation of WKA or of the sport of Karate.

5.17 An appeal can be presented before the Disciplinary and Legal Commission within 21 (twenty-one) days

following the notification of the provisional affiliation or disaffiliation decision by the Executive Committee

and/or the final affiliation or disaffiliation decision by the Congress.

ART. 6- RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF MEMBER COUNTRIES

6.1 Each member Federation must pay each year to the Treasurer before the 31st of March of the year an

annual membership fee as fixed by the Executive Committee.

National Federations who have not paid their annual fees and whatever other amounts due to the WKA

by the required date may be suspended by the Executive Committee as full rights members and from all

international activities until complete payment of all amounts due is made. Only the Executive Committee

will be able to authorise exceptions or postponements, these exceptions or postponements not affecting the

full applicability of Articles 10.1 and 12.21.

If the membership fee is not paid by the 31st of March but is paid subsequently in the current financial year

then a surcharge as set by the Executive Committee is applicable. If the payment is not made in the current

financial year a further surcharge as set by the Executive Committee is applicable.

Furthermore, if a country has not paid their membership fees fully and wishes to be actively involved at a

WKA Championships, then with the President’s permission a commitment to payment form as specified by

the President must be signed. It is the country’s responsibility to ensure such form is duly signed by a

responsible individual from their country and it is also the country’s responsibility to ensure such payment is

made by the date as specified on the form.

If such payment is not made by the date as specified on the form, then this will remove the possibility of any

future promissory notes being considered for the country in question. It will also result in the suspension of

that country from all WKA activities until the required payment including the relative surcharges has been

cleared.

National Federations whose payments are not completely made at the date fixed by the Congress may be

authorised by the Executive Committee to attend the Congress but will not have the rights to intervene nor to

vote.

6.2 The affiliated National Federations shall be entitled to: a) Participate in Congresses in accordance with

Statutory Norms and Rules; b) Participate in official competitions in accordance with the specific

Competition Rules; c) Enjoy the advantages and benefits provided by the WKA;

6.3 The affiliated National Federations are forbidden to cooperate with and/or participate in events which do

not comply with the WKA sporting and competition regulations, in particular anti-doping and safety rules

and standards, as well as with the WADA Code and standards.

ART. 7- INDIVIDUALS

7.1 The physical persons entitled to be WKA members through a National Federation are:

(a) The Athletes; (b) The Coaches; (c) The Physicians; (d) The Referees; (e) The Officials;

(f) All members of national delegations that take part in international official competitions;

g) Honorary President(s), Honorary Member(s) and former WKA President(s);

ART. 8- RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF INDIVIDUALS

8.1 The physical persons that are WKA members shall be entitled to: a) Participate in the WKA activities

via the respective National Federations; b) Wear the official WKA uniform, complying with pertaining

provisions about the matter; c) Be put forward for elective offices and appointments providing they possess

the minimal requirements;

8.2 The individual members are forbidden to participate in open karate competitions which do not comply

with the WKA sporting and competition regulations, in particular anti-doping and safety rules and standards,

as well as with the WADA Code and standards.

ART. 9- ACCEPTANCE AND OBLIGATIONS

9.1 National Federations and individual persons affiliated to the WKA shall undertake to comply with the

WKA Statutes, Norms, Rules, Regulations and standards, as well as with all provisions issued by the

Executive Committee.

9.2 Members shall undertake to work in complete compliance with all WKA rules, maintaining a demeanour

commensurate with the activity performed.

9.3 Any member in breach of the conditions as per points 9.1 and 9.2 above shall be liable to disciplinary

action as set forth herein.

ART. 10- ELIGIBILITY - CANDIDATURES – INCOMPATIBILITY

10.1 First time election to any WKA office is only open to persons officially put forward as candidates by

the National Federation of their own country, and then only when the National Federation has been effective

full rights member of the WKA for the last 2 (two) years and the National Federation is up to date with all

payments due to the WKA at the time of opening of the Congress. The President and the Executive

Committee members can individually put forward their candidatures to the Executive Committee. Every

candidate shall stand for only one position within the WKA.

10.2 The following persons cannot be elected members of the WKA Executive Committee:

a) The employees of the National Federation members of the WKA, for the duration of their work contract

plus 2 (two) years after the termination of their contract.

b) Those who are hired to perform a specific work for the WKA, either individually or as active partners or

board members of a company, for the duration of the contract plus 2 (two) years after its full fillment or the

delivery of the work.

c) Merchants or producers of sports items and their shareholders, partners, administrators and members of

the board of sports companies and any kind of commercial company which activity is within the realm of

commerce, or manufacture, of any kind of sports items or services pertaining to sports. Any individual while

in elected office becoming in breach of above limitations will forfeit any elected position held. The decision

of exclusion will be taken by the WKA Executive Committee.

10.3 All the candidatures for elective offices must be put forward exclusively by the respective National

Federation (except for cases referred in point 10.1 above) and be received at the WKA seat or at the General

Secretariat office - via post, fax or e-mail - at least 4 (four) months before the date of the relative Congress.

10.4 The formalities as per the points above shall also apply to outgoing members.

10.5 The validity of the candidatures shall be verified by the WKA General Secretary. Appeals against the

decision of the General Secretary shall be filed to the Disciplinary and Legal Commission (DLC) within the

5 (five) days following the notification of the said decision.

10.6 All the candidatures for elective offices shall be sent by the WKA General Secretary to the affiliated

National Federations at least 3 (three) months before the date of the Congress.

10.7 Elective offices and appointments are incompatible with the roles of Athlete, Coach or Referee in

official events. Should a person in one of these categories be elected or appointed, he must immediately give

up his previous role for the whole duration of the term of office.

10.8 Any National Federation cannot have more than 1(one) Executive Committee member, this without

counting the President, the permanent offices, the co-opted member(s) and the former WKA President(s).

10.9 If an appointed member other than a Commission Chairman loses the support of his National

Federation, the appointment will be immediately forfeited, barring appeal to the Disciplinary and Legal

Commission in application of the Rules of the latter.

10.10 If an elected member or the Chairman of a Commission loses the support of his National Federation,

he will need to remain in the office the support of 2/3 (two thirds) of the Executive Committee. Additionally,

if the elected member loses the support of the 2/3 (two thirds) of the Congress, the member will be

immediately revoked from the position. Subsequently – for the elected member – he will need the support of

2/3 (two thirds) of the Congress when the next elections take place.

10.11 The members of the Executive Committee cannot be appointed to the Refereeing Commission, the

Technical Commission, the Medical Commission and the Organisation Commission.

10.12 All Executive Committee members must hold the citizenship of the country of their National

Federation.

ART. 11- ORGANISATION

11.1 The powers of the WKA are exercised by its organs, namely:

a) The Congress;

b) The Executive Committee;

c) The President;

ART. 12- CONGRESS

12.1 The Congress is the supreme organ of the WKA, being given deliberative powers. It shall decide only

on matters included on the official agenda.

The Ordinary Congress shall have the final say on all matters relating to karate as presented from the

National Federations, and on any other topic of a general nature, and it shall define the guidelines for the

WKA activity.

12.2 The Ordinary Congress shall meet every 2 (two) years at the occasion of the World Senior

Championships and in the city where these take place.

12.3 The call for the Congress shall be given by post, fax or e- mail, signed by the President or by the

General Secretary.

12.4 The Congress can consider only items which are included in the agenda. At least 6 (six) months before

the date fixed for the Congress, the General Secretary shall invite the National Federations members to

submit via post, fax or e-mail to the General Secretariat items which they wish to have included in the

agenda after agreement from the Executive Committee. The proposals will have to be submitted at least 4

(four) months before the date of the Congress.

12.5 At least 3 (three) months before the date fixed for the Congress, the General Secretary will send to the

member Federations the draft of the agenda formulated by the Executive Committee.

12.6 The agenda must include the following: Approval of the minutes of the preceding Congress, reports of

the President and General Secretary, report of the Treasurer and of the Auditors, report of the Chairman of

the Sports Commission and election of new members to vacant positions in the Executive Committee.

12.7 Also the following matters shall be included on the agenda: a) Decisions on permanent affiliations of

disaffiliation of National Federations; b) Information on the future activity and designation of the relevant

organisations;

12.8 Questions not included in the agenda for the Congress may, at the consent of the majority of 2/3 (two-

thirds) of the members present, be discussed and decided upon, barring when the President, due to time

constraints or for considering them of sufficient importance, decides to refer the question to the Executive

Committee, or if considered of sufficient importance by the President, he decides to refer the question to the

next Congress. Changes in the Statutes will by their nature be considered of sufficient importance as defined

above.

12.9 The Congress shall be presided over by the President of the WKA, or in his absence by the 1st Vice-

president or in absence of the latter by a Vice-president to be selected following the order in which they

were ranked.

The Congress secretary shall be the General Secretary of the WKA or, in his absence, the Assistant General

Secretary unless otherwise delegated by the WKA President.

12.10 The delegate who represents a National Federation at the Congress must hold the citizenship of the

country represented and have a proxy signed by the President of the National Federation unless the National

Federation is represented by its President.

12.11 The verification of the proxy will be carried out by a Commission composed by 3(three) persons,

namely 1 (one) Vice-president, the General Secretary or the Assistant General Secretary and the Treasurer or

the Assistant Treasurer before the official opening of the Congress. In the case of any contestation, the

General Secretary shall submit the claim to the Disciplinary and Legal Commission. Should any of the

prescribed members of the Commission not be present at the Congress the WKA President will, at his

discretion, appoint substitute Commission members from the WKA Executive Committee members present.

12.12 For the positions to be elected where there is the same number of candidates as positions, the election

may take place by acclamation, one candidate at a time.

12.13 In order to be valid, candidatures for the Executive Committee must be sent by post, fax or e-mail 4

(four) months before the Congress to the seat of the WKA. This formality is also necessary for all members

who present themselves for re election, including the Executive Committee co-opted members.

12.14 Observers may be invited to the Congress by the President, with the right to speak only upon the

authorisation of the President.

12.15 The candidates for election must stand with respect to the ethics and principles of the WKF and not

attempt to procure votes by offering incentives to the WKA members. Any candidate found offering

incentives to obtain votes will forfeit his eligibility for the candidature of the office.

12.16 It is forbidden for a National Federation to give a proxy to another National Federation or to a

delegate who has a different citizenship than the one of the country of the National Federation, even if he is

a member of that National Federation.

12.17 The members of the Executive Committee other than the Executive Bureau members shall not have

the right to vote in the Congress, except if they represent a National Federation.

12.18 Barring the terms of Articles 22 and 23 as set forth herein, the Congress shall decide by majority vote.

Voting shall generally be done by the show of hands or by roll call. For elections and questions of particular

importance, or whenever the Chair of the Congress or ½ (half) of the delegates with voting rights demand it,

voting shall be by secret ballot. For elections secret ballot is obligatory – except for the cases referred in

Article

12.12 - and the one round system will be followed in all cases. When secret ballot, the Executive Bureau

members will vote at the end.

12.19 In the event of a tie, the Chairman of the Congress shall have the right to cast the deciding vote or may

also decide to repeat the voting between the candidates tied.

12.20 The following shall be entitled to take part in the Congress:

a) The affiliated National Federations in possession of voting rights;

b) The Executive Committee;

c) The Chairmen of the WKA Commissions;

d) The Honorary President(s) and Honorary Member(s);

e) The National Federations with provisional affiliation.

12.21 The affiliated National Federations, in accordance with Statutory Norms and Rules shall be entitled to

1 (one) vote, providing they have had sporting activity in WKA in the year of the Congress and in the

previous year, have paid the relative membership fee during the last 2 (two) years and have cleared all the

outstanding payments to the WKA.

12.22 The annual sporting period, accounting period and fiscal year adopted by the WKA shall coincide

with the calendar year (1st of January / 31st of December).

12.23 Abstentions and blank or spoiled votes are not taken into consideration in the calculation of the

required majority.

12.24 Each National Federation may be represented by up to 2 (two) persons, who, if 1 (one) of the 2 (two)

is not the National Federation President, must be in possession of a proxy signed from the President of the

same National Federation. Each Federation may also have its own interpreter.

12.25 The Congress shall be deemed valid at the first call if at least 1/2 (half) of affiliated National

Federations in possession of voting rights are present, or at the second call, 1 (one) hour later, if at least 1/3

(one-third) of affiliated National Federation in possession of voting rights are present. If finally, a valid

Congress is not possible for reasons of quorum, the Executive Committee will convene right after the

cancellation of the Congress, with the same agenda as published for the Congress, and with equivalent

powers as that of the announced Congress with exception to Article 23 of these Statutes.

12.26 Every 6 (six) years, to coincide with the World Senior Championships, the Ordinary Congress shall

elect the President via secret ballot.

Every 4 (four) years, to coincide with the World Senior Championships, the Ordinary Congress shall elect,

via secret ballot: a) The 17 (seventeen) elective positions of the Executive Committee;

12.27 The 17 (seventeen) Executive Committee members elected by the Congress are elected for a period of

4 (four) years.

12.28 The Extraordinary Congress shall meet: a) Upon the initiative of the President, when the same

considers it necessary; b) Upon the written and justified request of at least 50% + 1 (half plus one) of the

members of the Executive Committee; c) Upon written and justified request of at least 50% (half) of the

affiliated National Federations in possession of voting rights; Providing it complies with the terms and

procedures for the validity of Congress as set forth herein, an Extraordinary Congress may be called at the

same time as an Ordinary Congress. The resolutions and decisions of the Extraordinary Congress shall have

the same validity as those of the Ordinary Congress.

12.29 The Extraordinary Congress may deal with all matters normally handled by the Ordinary Congress or

for which these Statutes confer it the exclusive competence. It shall decide on the proposals to amend the

Statutes or any proposal to dissolve the WKA.

12.30 The Chairman of the Congress shall decide on the duration of the speaking time granted to the

participants and limitations to when an issue is considered adequately debated before being taken up for

voting.

12.31 The Congress may delegate powers to the Executive Committee.

12.32 Any decision of the Congress, including decisions on amendments to the Statutes, comes into effect

immediately unless otherwise decided by the Congress upon proposal of the President.

12.33 Minutes of all meetings and other proceedings of the Congress are established under the authority of

the President.

ART. 13- EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

13.1 The Executive Committee shall be composed of the President, and at least 23 (twenty-three) members,

of whom 5 (five) members shall be permanent members (i.e. the representatives of each of the 5 (five)

Continental Federations), 1 (one) member the Chairman of the Athletes Commission as per Article 13.9

below, and 17 (seventeen) elected members.

13.2 All Executive Committee elective positions will be elected by the whole Congress.

13.3 In the Executive Committee the equal opportunity to women and men must be assured.

13.4 The Executive Committee will have the right to co-opt a number of additional female members in the

event that after the elections the number of women members of the Executive Committee, in the

Committee’s own opinion, is considered insufficient for female representation. The Executive Committee

will have also the right to co-opt 2(two) additional members. The term of the co-opted member(s) will be at

the discretion of the Executive Committee, who may at any time revoke the co-option(s). These co-opted

members are appointed with simple majority of the Executive Committee members and once co-opted will

enjoy full membership and voting rights until the next ordinary election.

13.5 The Executive Committee will from time to time revise and fix the criteria and distribution of the 17

(seventeen) elective Executive Committee positions between the 5 (five) Continental Federations.

13.6 The Executive Committee shall be in power for a 6 (six) year term for the President’s office and for a 4

(four) year term for the 17 (seventeen) elected members. All may be re-elected indefinitely.

13.7 The newly elected President and Executive Committee members will take office immediately after the

election. All attendance and accreditation rights of the outgoing EC members will be kept until the day after

the close of the Championships where the corresponding elective Congress has taken place.

13.8 In its first meeting, to take place as early as possible after the elective Congress, the Executive

Committee, upon proposal of the President, shall reconfirm or appoint from among its members the 1st, the

2nd and the 3 rd Vice-president, the General Secretary, the Assistant General Secretary, the General

Treasurer, and the Assistant General Treasurer.

The Executive Committee, upon proposal of the President, may revoke and subsequently reappoint any of

these positions.

The Presidents of the 5 (five) Continental Federations will automatically assume the positions of Vice-

presidents. When the representative of the Continental Federation is not the President of that Continental

Federation, the representative will have the status of regular Executive Committee member. The Executive

Committee, by qualified majority of 3/5 (three fifths), may revoke the appointment of the representative of a

Continental Federation in the WKA Executive Committee and may also consequently make a direct

appointment for the representative of that Continental Federation in the WKA Executive Committee.

13.9 The Chairman of the Athletes Commission being a position elected directly by the athletes will be a full

rights Executive Committee member.

13.10 In accordance with the provisions of Article 10 herein, former WKA Presidents shall remain

Executive Committee members for life, without voting rights.

13.11 The Executive Committee shall lead, manage and administer WKA activity, draw up programmes in

accordance with the directives approved by the Congress and assure that they are enacted.

Mainly, it shall:

a) Call Congresses, establishing the agenda;

b) Draft the technical and financial report on the previous year's activity, to be submitted for the approval of

the Congress;

c) Approve the budget relative changes and the final balance-sheet, to be submitted for the approval of the

Congress;

d) Create, restructure and remove Commissions;

e) Approve and amend Rules, Regulations and Standards;

f) Decide upon the provisional affiliation of National Federations, to be submitted for ratification of the

Congress;

g) Decide on the suspension of international activities of National Federations for any reason, in particular

in case of non-payment of the annual fees;

h) Confer and repeal appointments;

i) Administer available funds;

j) Monitor compliance with the Statutes, Rules and Regulations and issued Norms;

k) Issue provisions for the implementation of the National Federations recognition, affiliation and

membership;

l) Decide upon the amounts of fees and charges;

m) Grant amnesties, pardons and remissions and establish the limits of these measures;

n) Grant distinctions

0) Consider urgent provisions issued by the President;

p) Decide upon other matters included in the agenda;

q) Decide on any matter which does not fall under the competence of the Congress or of any WKA body

other than the Executive Committee.

13.13 There will be an Executive Bureau in charge to deal with the day to day affairs between the President

and the different Bureau members, depending on the matters to be dealt with. The Executive Bureau

composition will be determined from time to time by the Executive Committee upon the suggestion of the

President. As a minimum it will comprise the President, the 1st Vice-president, the General Secretary and

the General Treasurer.

13.14 If for any reason a position should become vacant in the Executive Committee, the Executive

Committee may proceed to co-opt a member in accordance with the terms of Article 10 herein. The co-opted

member(s) shall remain in office at the discretion of the Executive Committee and as a limit until the

following Congress, when regular elections for the co-opted position(s) are held.

13.15 The travel, accommodation costs and other expenses, as well as the relative allowances from the

Executive Committee members shall be settled in accordance with the provisions of the relevant Rules and

Regulations.

13.16 The term of the members of the Executive Committee will be automatically extended up to the time of

the Congress if the term expires before the date of meeting of such Congress.

13.17 At the request of the Executive Committee, meetings will also be attended by the Chairmen of the

Permanent Commissions for matters directly concerning them.

13.18 All members of the Executive Committee of the WKA are its representatives in their respective

countries and not delegates of their countries within the WKA. This is also applicable at Continental

Federations level.

13.19 The National Federations affiliated to the WKA must include the WKA Executive Committee

members in their country, if any. Such members shall form part of and will have the right to vote in the

Executive Committees and the General Assemblies of their National Federations. When the national

legislation does not allow so, they will be invited to attend, and will also in all cases be attributed a

preferential place in all manifestations, events and championships.

13.20 When for any reason a meeting of the Executive Committee cannot take place, the necessary decision

may be taken following an exchange of faxes or e-mails.

13.21 The Executive Committee takes all their decisions by simple majority. In the event of a tied vote, the

President, or in his absence the Acting Chairman, will have the casting vote.

13.22 In order to be considered valid, any meeting of the Executive Committee of the WKA must include at

least 50% (half) of its members and be presided over by the President, or in his absence, by one of the Vice-

presidents to be selected following the order in which they were ranked. No proxies are allowed.

13.23 The minutes of all meetings and other proceedings of the Executive Committee are established under

the authority of the President. No correction or alteration to the minutes will be accepted unless written

modification has been received and acknowledged in writing by the Secretariat within 1(one) month after

they have been circulated to the National Federation members.

13.24 Vice-Presidents 13.24.1 The Executive Committee, in its first meeting after the elections, shall

appoint from among its members, upon proposal of the President, at least the 1st, the 2nd and the 3rd Vice-

president. 13.24.2 The Vice-presidents shall provide the President with assistance for all functions and shall

replace him upon in the occasions as set forth herein in accordance with the relative procedures. 13.24.3 The

Executive Committee may assign special duties to the Vice presidents providing they are not in

contradiction with the provisions herein.

13.25 General Secretary

13.25.1 The Executive Committee, in its first meeting after the elections, shall appoint from among its

members, upon proposal of the President, the General Secretary.

13.25.2 To be eligible as the WKA General Secretary is necessary to be a WKA Executive Committee

member at the time of the election in the relevant EC meeting (see 13.8).

13.25.3 The duties of the General Secretary shall be:

a) To execute the decisions taken by the Executive Committee;

b) To maintain relationships with the Continental Federations, with the affiliated National Federations and

with outside parties;

c) To draw up and take care of the minutes of the Executive Committee and of the Congress meetings;

13.25.4 At each meeting of the Executive Committee the General Secretary must present an up to date report

on the WKF situation. 13.26 Assistant General Secretary

13.26.1 The Executive Committee, in its first meeting after the elections, shall appoint from among its

members, upon proposal of the President, the Assistant General Secretary.

13.26.2 The duties of the Assistant General Secretary shall be:

a) To assist the General Secretary and replace him in the event of absence or impediment;

b) Perform any other secretarial duty asked by the General Secretary or by the Executive Committee;

13.27 General Treasurer

13.27.1 The Executive Committee, in its first meeting after the elections, shall appoint from among its

members, upon proposal of the President, the General Treasurer.

13.27.2 It is the duty of the General Treasurer to keep the accounts in order.

13.27.3 At each meeting of the Executive Committee to take place immediately before an Ordinary

Congress, the General Treasurer must present an up to date report on the WKA situation.

13.28 Assistant General Treasurer

13.28.1 The Executive Committee, in its first meeting after the elections, shall appoint from among its

members, upon proposal of the President, the Assistant General Treasurer.

13.28.2 The duties of the Assistant General Treasurer shall be:

a) To assist the General Treasurer and replace him in the event of absence or impediment;

b) Perform any other administrative duty asked by the General Treasurer or by the Executive Committee;

ART. 14- PRESIDENT

14.1 The President or other member(s) of the Executive Committee appointed by the President shall

represent the WKA in International Organisations and before outside parties. The President represents the

WKA before the ordinary justice both in demand and in defence without need to be authorised by the

Executive Committee. He can delegate his powers to be represented in any event, before the Court or before

the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS / CAS) or in any other juridical matter.

14.2 To be eligible as the WKA President is necessary to be a WKA Executive Committee member at the

time of the election.

14.3 The WKA President shall be responsible for the day to day running of the WKA and for answering to

the Congress and to the Executive Committee.

14.4 The WKA President shall convene and chair the Executive Committee, after having drafted the agenda,

and shall monitor the implementation of the approved resolutions, barring exceptions expressly specified

herein

14.5 The WKA President shall convene and chair the Congress, barring exceptions expressly specified

herein.

14.6 The WKA President will be by right a member of the Executive Committee of each of the Continental

Federations recognised by the WKA.

14.7 In emergency situations, the WKA President may take decisions normally attributed to the Executive

Committee or to the Congress. These decisions shall however be submitted to the ratification of the

Executive Committee, and in its case of the Congress, in its subsequent meeting.

14.8 In the event of a temporary absence, the WKA President may delegate some or all of his functions and

powers to the 1st Vice-president.

14.9 In the event of the President's resignation or permanent absence, his powers shall be taken over by the

1st Vice-president, that, together with the Executive Committee, shall continue to carry out the ordinary

administration of the WKA until the next Ordinary Congress, where the elections for President will be called

in accordance with the terms and procedures as set forth herein. In case the date of the Congress cannot fulfil

the candidature procedure time as per Article 10.3, the call for elections will have to take place at the

following Ordinary Congress.

In the case of the President’s resignation, the President is also entitled, at his sole discretion, to call for

Presidential elections for the remainder of the term before the expiration of the said term for which he has

been elected. In this case, the Presidential election will take place at the next Ordinary Congress in

accordance with the terms and procedures as set forth herein. In the event of absence or resignation of the

1st Vice-president, the other Vice presidents shall take his place according firstly to the rank given by the

Executive Committee, secondly to seniority in office and lastly to seniority by age.

ART. 15- FINANCES, ACCOUNTS AND AUDITING

15.1 Under the authority of the Executive Committee, the General Treasurer is responsible for the liquid

assets of the WKA and the regular keeping of the accounts.

15.2 The Executive Committee will appoint an independent qualified accountant, or a firm of qualified

accountants, who will be given the task of auditing annually the accounts of the WKA and reporting to it on

them. For each Ordinary Congress, the appointed accountant will moreover provide a succinct report on the

audit of the WKA accounts. This report will also indicate whether the accounts have been kept in a regular

manner and in accordance with the Statutes of the WKA.

ART. 16- COMMISSIONS

Without prejudice of what contained in Article 13, point 11), letter d), there will in principle be the

following Commissions:

1.- Athletes Commission

2.- Disciplinary & Legal Commission, Betting and Ethics

3.- Women Sport Commission

4.- Medical Commission

5.- Organising Commission

6.- Referee Commission

7.- Sports Commission

8.- Technical Commission

9.- Entourage Commission

10.-Competition Rules Commission 11.-Para-Karate Commission

12.-Protocol Commission

Other commissions may be established by the Executive Committee as need may be.

ART. 17- RULES AND REGULATIONS

17.1 The Executive Committee, in accordance with the terms set forth in Article 13, point 11), letter e), and

in order to achieve the aims of the WKA, shall issue all the WKA Rules and Regulations and adopt WKA

Standards in any relevant area.

17.2 The Permanent Commissions shall help to prepare the Rules, Regulations and Standards in their own

sphere of activity.

17.3 All Rules, Regulations and Standards must conform to the principles of these Statutes.

ART. 18- HONORARY PRESIDENT AND HONORARY MEMBERS

18.1 Based upon a proposal of the Executive Committee, the Ordinary Congress shall elect the Honorary

Presidents and the Honorary Members by acclamation. They shall be chosen among members who, with

selfless commitment, have made a significant contribution to the spread of karate in the world and acquired

special merits within the WKA. The Honorary President(s) and Honorary Member(s) are elected without

time limitation. Their nomination may be reconsidered by the Congress upon proposal of the Executive

Committee or the Disciplinary and Legal Commission by a 2/3 (two thirds) majority vote.

18.2 It is not possible to have more than 2 (two) Honorary Presidents at the same time, except in the case of

an outgoing President being elected Honorary President.

18.3 The Honorary President is entitled to attend, without voting rights, Congresses and Executive

Committee meetings.

18.4 The Honorary President(s) and Honorary Members shall make up the WKA Honorary Board.

ART. 19- PRIZES AND REWARDS

19.1 The Star for Sporting Merit will be the distinction to honour National Federations and individuals who

have distinguished themselves through the performance of activity to popularise and improve the sport of

karate.

19.2 There are 3 (three) types of Stars for Sporting Merit:

a) Gold: For the Honorary Presidents and Honorary Members, for National Federations and individuals that

have worked for karate at least 20 (twenty) years.

b) Silver: For National Federations and individuals that have worked for karate at least 15 (fifteen) years.

c) Bronze: For National Federations and individuals that have worked for karate at least 10 (ten) years.

19.3 The Stars for Sporting Merit are accompanied by the corresponding Diploma and, for individuals, by a

special badge.

ART. 20- DAN GRADES

20.1 The WKF shall recognize and award Dan Grades in accordance with the relative Regulations.

ART. 21- PRINCIPLES OF SPORTING JUSTICE

21.1 The WKF will have a Disciplinary and Legal Commission (DLC), which shall be empowered to

impose disciplinary sanctions or take any other decision in accordance with the Disciplinary and Legal

Rules (DLR). The right of defence and contradiction will be granted.

21.2 Any dispute arising from the application or interpretation of the WKA Statutes, Rules, Regulations and

Standards will be settled exclusively and finally by a Tribunal formed by the DLC pursuant to its Rules.

21.3 The National Federations are responsible before the WKA of the actions of the associations, clubs and

individuals that belong to them, as well as of the compliance of all their components with the Statutes of the

WKA.

21.4 A National Federation may be permanently disaffiliated from the WKA for one of the following

reasons

a) By majority decision of the Congress, for any serious violation of the Statutes or for any other reason that

the majority of the Congress would consider, at its entire discretion, legitimate for the sake of WKA’s

interest;

b) In particular, for omission of payment of the membership fees for 2 (two) years. In this case the decision

may be taken by the Executive Committee;

21.5 Whether a National Federation shall leave the WKA through disaffiliation or termination or for any

other reason, it shall remain liable to the WKA for all amounts due and must fulfil its duties and obligations

to the WKA.

21.6 If a National Federation, the members that form that National Federation or an individual member of

that National Federation contravenes the Statutes of the WKA, or for any reason of discipline, the WKA

may restrain or suspend the activities of this Federation or individual member, in accordance with the WKA

Statutes and the DLR. Any disciplinary decision taken by the WKA must also be applied inside the

corresponding Continental Federation.

21.7 The Disciplinary and Legal Commission may take disciplinary actions against National Federations and

individual persons.

21.8 The amnesties, pardons and remissions given can be specific, partial or of an absolutely general nature.

21.9 Affiliated members and Individuals shall commit themselves to accept no authority other than the one

of the WKA. An appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS / CAS) is only possible after having

exhausted all the internal resources foreseen in the WKA Statutes and Disciplinary Rules.

ART. 22- AMENDMENTS TO THE STATUTES

22.1 Proposals to amend these Statutes may be put forward by the Executive Committee or by affiliated

National Federations having voting rights. In the case of National Federations, proposals must be presented

to the Executive Committee by at least 50% + 1 (half plus one) of all affiliated National Federations having

voting rights.

22.2 The Executive Committee shall call the relevant Extraordinary Congress in compliance with the terms

and procedures as set forth herein.

22.3 Proposals to amend these Statutes must be approved by at least 2/3 (two thirds) of the affiliated

National Federations having voting rights that are present at the Congress

22.4 Changes in these Statutes become provisionally effective upon approval of the Executive Committee

and finally upon ratification by the Congress.

22.5 For anything that is not covered by these Statutes, the Executive Committee may take action the

necessary decisions which must then be submitted for ratification to the next Congress.

ART. 23- DISSOLUTION

23.1 The proposal to dissolve the WKA must be presented to the Executive Committee by at least 4/5 (four

fifths) of the affiliated National Federations having voting rights. 2

3.2 The Executive Committee shall call the relative Extraordinary Congress in compliance with the terms

and procedures as set forth herein.

23.3 The proposal to dissolve the WKA must be decided by the Extraordinary Congress with a majority of at

least 4/5 (four-fifths) of the votes of the affiliated National Federations having voting rights.

23.4 Should the WKA be dissolved, its assets must be divided among the affiliated National Federations

having voting rights in proportion to the number of years that each Federation has been affiliated.

Transitional Dispositions

1) These Statutes will be in effect immediately after their approval of the WKA Congress, with exception to

any paragraph that may, in the opinion of the Executive Committee, infringe on the existing rights of elected

officials under the previous existing Statutes, in which case the Executive Committee will make such

dispositions as in their opinion is deemed required, and determine the necessary transition period for any

such remedy.

2) The elections in the 5 (five) Continental Federations must be held in the year after the Olympic Summer

Games.

*****

The present Statutes have been approved by the WKA Congress in Madrid (Spain) on November 5th of the

year 2018.

JUDGES & REFEREES

The Referees are a fundamental part of Karate as a sport. The evaluation of the different actions, the quality of the performance, the fair play and the strict compliance with the Rules make possible that the discipline stays aligned with the previously defined competition scenario.

WORLD KARATE AUTHORITY REFEREEE COMMISSION

Information to all WKA Referees, Judges and Candidates

1. Kata & Kumite Candidates must be at least 25 years old and be a min. 2nd WKF Dan Grade.

2. The National Federations may nominate their country’s citizens as candidates to the WKA Referee

course. Candidates must be qualified National Kumite Referee-A or National Kata JudgeA and must be

registered Online through the WKA software provider at least 60 days before the start of the Course or face

a fine or other penalties as decided by the Executive Committee.

3. Provided that an official keeps their licence up to date, attends a WKA Championship at least once in

every two years, attends the pre-championship briefing and officiates satisfactorily then they will not be

expected to undergo another practical examination, although they must sit and pass the theory paper which

will be presented before the Referees briefing, once in every three years.

4. All Judges and Referees must renew (pay) their licences every four years. All current officials are

required to be paid up to date with the WKA Treasury. Officials that do not pay the license renewal by the

end of the year that the payment is due will not be able to officiate as WKA Judges/Referees until the

payment is satisfied. Officials of countries in debt to WKA may not participate in WKA Championships or

courses.

5. All refereeing officials who have not attended the course and wishing to officiate at the Championships

must attend the briefing the day before the Championships. All Referees and Judges must be present at the

competition venue for final briefing and area allocation, 30 minutes before the scheduled start.

6. Referees & Judges officiating in a WKA event cannot perform other functions and must not have the

nationality of either of the participants during a Kata or Kumite bout.

7. The Refereeing panel are strictly warned against discussing the outcome or decision of a match or bout

with other than the members of the Referee panel, Tatami Manager or the Referee Commission.

Infringement of this rule may incur penalties against the offender.

8. Referees and Judges officiating in a WKA event must in principle have residence in the country they

represent and be exclusively affiliated through the NF of their country of residence. Exceptions to this must

be approved by the National Federation in which the individual has citizenship and will be subject to the

final approval of WKA EC.

Kata Competition

Examination questions for Kata Judges Version January 2019

The answer paper is to be returned to the examiners. All answers are to be entered on the separate answer

paper only. You must make sure that your name, country, number and any other information required are

entered on the answer paper.

You may not have any additional papers or books on your desk while undertaking this examination. During

the examination to be seen speaking to another candidate or copying another’s paper will mean suspension

and automatic failure of the examination. If you are not sure of the correct procedures or have any questions

about any aspect of the examination you should speak only to an examiner.

The result of the examination both theory and practical will be sent to the candidate’s National Federation.

January 2019

KATA EXAMINATION

“TRUE OR FALSE”

On the answer paper put an “X” in the appropriate box. The answer to a question is true only if it can be held

to be true in all situations; otherwise it is considered to be false. Each correct answer scores one point.

1. Competitors must wear a plain blue or red belt corresponding to their pool.

2. The total time allowed for the Kata and Bunkai demonstration combined, is six minutes.

3. In Kata competition slight variations as taught by the contestant's style (Ryu-ha) are permitted.

4. Glasses are forbidden in kata completion.

5. The number of Competitors will determine the number of groups to facilitate the elimination rounds.

6. The medal winners of the previous event must be seeded for next competition.

7. The right to seeding does down flow to lower places in the absence of Competitors eligible for seeding.

8. The elimination system used for kata is dividing the Competitors in equal number groups based on the

number of participants.

9. The number of Competitors per group cannot exceed 8.

10. If the number of Competitors is 97 or more, the numbers of groups must be doubled to 16.

11. Judges should look for correct Kihon of the school being demonstrated.

12. The starting point for kata will marked with a small cross within the perimeter of the competition area.

13. Conformance is a consistency in the performance of the kihon of the style (ryu-ha) in the kata.

14. Competitors from countries which are well known for producing medal winners should be given special

consideration.

15. The starting point for kata performance is two metres inside the match area and facing the Chief Judge.

16. Giving a command to start and finish the kata by a team member is not considered to be an external cue.

17. The mats must form a uniformed colored surface for kata competition.

18. Judges should look for correct Kihon of the Competitor´s style (Ryu-ha) being demonstrated.

19. The panel of Judges can be changed in a group for any single round.

20. The total time allowed for the Kata & Bunkai demonstration combined, is 5 minutes.

21. In kata competition the sleeves of the karate-gi jacket may not be rolled up.

22. It is the responsibility of the coach or competitor to notify the name of the kata to score table prior each

round.

23. The number of Judges per panel may be reduced to five for any competition.

24. A previously performed Kata may be repeated only if used as tie-breaker.

25. The karate-gi trousers may be slightly shorter so as to only cover half of the shin.

26. The total time allowed for the Kata and Bunkai demonstration combined, is five minutes.

27. The total time allowed for the Kata and Bunkai demonstration combined, is seven minutes.

28. The score table personnel include timekeepers, scorekeepers and caller/announcers.

29. Technical Performance and Athletic Performance are given separate scores.

30. The Judges of a kata match may not have the same nationality as either of the contestants.

31. Although ribbons and other decorations for the hair are not allowed in kumite they are permissible in

kata.

32. In the bouts for medals in Team Kata competition, teams will perform a demonstration of the meaning of

the Kata (Bunkai).

33. The panel of three or five Judges for each match will be designated by the Tatami Manager.

34. For competitions not counting for WKA World Ranking or Olympic standing, the number of judges may

be reduced to 5.

35. The panel of five Judges for each match will be designated by the Referee Commission.

36. The total score is weighed 50% for technical performance and 50% for athletic performance.

37. Female competitors must wear a plain white T-shirt beneath the Karate jacket.

38. Female competitors can, if they want, wear a plain white T-shirt beneath the Karate jacket.

39. The trousers must be long enough to cover at least two thirds of the shin and must not reach the

anklebone.

40. The wearing of unauthorised apparel, clothing or equipment is forbidden.

41. A discreet rubber band or pony tail retainer is permitted in Kata competition.

42. The competition area must be of sufficient size to permit the uninterrupted performance of Kata.

43. The matted Kumite areas are not suitable for Kata competition.

44. The karate-gi jacket may be removed during the performance of Kata.

45. Audible cues are on the same level as one would penalize a temporary loss of balance.

46. Variations as taught by the contestant’s style (Ryu-ha) of Karate will not be permitted.

47. The score table must be notified of the choice of Kata prior to each round.

48. A team which does not perform the bow at the completion of the Bunkai performance will be

disqualified.

49. The number of Kata required is dependent on the number of individual competitors or teams entered.

50. In the event of a tie, the competitors must perform an additional kata.

51. In assessing the performance of a contestant or team the Judges will evaluate the performance based on

the two major criteria.

52. The two major criteria are: technical performance and athletic performance.

53. Causing injury by lack of controlled technique during Bunkai is considered a foul.

54. The three major criteria are: conformance, correct breathing and technical difficulty.

55. The three major criteria are: strength, speed and timing.

56. The three major criteria are: synchronisation, stances and timing.

57. Speed and balance are part of the athletic performance.

58. Strength is part of the athletic performance.

59. Correct breathing, techniques and transitional movements are part of the technical performance.

60. Difficulty of the Kata and stances are part of the technical performance.

61. Strength, speed, balance and rhythm are part of the athletic performance.

62. In Bunkai performance; transitional movements and control are part of the technical performance.

63. In Bunkai performance; balance, timing and speed are part of the athletic performance.

64. In Bunkai performance: strength, timing and stances are part of the athletic performance.

65. Bunkai are to be given equal importance as the Kata itself.

66. Excessive bowing before starting the performance is considered a foul.

67. Causing injury by lack of controlled technique during Bunkai is a disqualification.

68. Both two major criteria must be given equal importance in the evaluation of the performance.

69. Performing the wrong kata or announcing the wrong kata leads to disqualification.

70. Stamping the feet, slapping the chest, arms, or karate-gi, will be taken into account by the Judges when

arriving at a decision.

71. A competitor will not be disqualified if he does a distinct pause or stop in the performance for several

seconds.

72. Bunkai are not to be given equal importance as the kata itself.

73. Interference with the function of the Judges leads to disqualification.

74. The use of audible cues from any other person, including other team members is considered a foul.

75. If the competitor’s belt falls off during the performance of kata the competitor will be disqualified.

76. Failure to follow the instructions of the Chief Judge or other misconduct is considered a foul.

77. Failure to follow the instructions of the Chief Judge or other misconduct leads to disqualification.

78. Exceeding the total time limit of 6 minutes duration for Kata and Bunkai is considered a foul.

79. In Team Kata, all three team members must start and finish the Kata facing in the same direction and

towards the Chief Judge.

80. Kata performance must be realistic in fighting terms and display concentration, power, and potential

impact in its techniques.

81. Causing injury by lack of controlled technique during Bunkai is not considered a foul.

82. Minor loss of balance must not be considered in the evaluation of the Kata performance.

83. Exceeding the total time limit of 5 minutes duration for Kata and Bunkai leads to disqualification.

84. Kata performance must demonstrate strength, balance and speed.

85. Minor loss of balance must be considered in the evaluation of the Kata performance.

86. Asynchronous movement, such as delivering a technique before the body transition is completed is

considered a foul.

87. Inappropriate exhalation will be taken into account by the Judges when arriving at a decision.

88. In team kata; failing to do a movement in unison is not considered a foul.

89. Performing a movement in an incorrect or incomplete manner is considered a foul.

90. Time wasting, including prolonged marching, excessive bowing or prolonged pause before starting the

performance is considered a foul.

91. Stamping the feet, slapping the chest, arms, or karate-gi, are audible cues.

92. The use of audible cues is not considered a foul.

93. Inappropriate exhalation is not an audible cue.

94. Failure to fully execute a block or punching off target is considered a foul.

95. Causing injury by lack of controlled technique during Bunkai is allowed.

96. The members of the team must demonstrate competence in all aspects of the Kata performance, as well

as synchronisation.

97. Commands to start and stop the performance will be taken into account by the Judges when arriving at a

decision.

98. It is the responsibility of the President of the National Federation to ensure that the Kata as notified to

the score table is appropriate for that particular round.

99. While performing Bunkai, after being downed the competitor should either raise to one knee or stand up.

100. Ties may occur in kata competition.

101. When resolving ties, the Competitors original score is not retained in the record.

102. A round is to be understood as one performance of all the Competitors of a group.

103. The Competitor must wait on the tatami for the announcement of the evaluation at the end of

performance.

104. At the end of each group only the top two competitors will pass to the next round.

105. The competitors can select any Kata from the official Kata list.

106. A team which does not perform the bow at the beginning and completion of the performance will be

disqualified.

107. The use of traditional weapons, ancillary equipment or additional apparel is allowed.

108. The performance in individual Kata is evaluated from the bow starting the kata until the bow ending the

Kata

109. Belt coming loose to the extent that it is coming off the hips during the performance is a foul.

110. Belt coming loose to the extent that it is coming off the hips during the performance is a

disqualification. 111. If a contestant is disqualified, the score is indicated by a 0.0 .

112. There are 8 criteria in technical performance.

113. Although performing a scissor takedown technique (Kani Basami) to the neck area in performing

Bunkai is prohibited, a scissor takedown to the body is permitted.

114. For the medal bouts, only the top 3 Competitors of each of the two groups will pass.

115. Performing a scissor takedown technique (Kani Basami) to the neck area in Bunkai is not prohibited.

116. The Competitors will step back out of the Match Area, following the bows, first “SHOMEN NI REI” -

and then “OTAGAI NI REI”.

117. Audible cues must be considered very serious fouls by the judges in their evaluation of the performance

of the kata.

118. The Tatami Managers will provide the RC Chairman and Secretary with a list containing 8 officials

from their own Tatami after the last bout of the eliminatory rounds is finished

119. Conformance is one of the criteria of athletic performance.

120. Conformance is one of the criteria of technical performance.

Kumite Competition

Examination Paper for Kumite Referees and Judges

Version January 2019

The answer paper is to be returned to the examiners. All answers are to be entered on the separate answer

paper only. You must make sure that your name, country, number and any other information required are

entered on the answer paper.

You may not have any additional papers or books on your desk while undertaking this examination. During

the examination to be seen speaking to another candidate or copying another’s paper will mean suspension

and automatic failure of the examination. If you are not sure of the correct procedures or have any questions

about any aspect of the examination you should speak only to an examiner.

The result of the examination both theory and practical will be sent to the candidate’s National Federation.

KUMITE EXAMINATION

“TRUE OR FALSE”

On the answer paper put an “X” in the appropriate box. The answer to a question is true only if it can be held

to be true in all situations; otherwise it is considered to be false. Each correct answer scores one point.

1. The combined size of the competition area and the safety area is eight metres by eight metres.

2. The national flag or emblem of the contestant’s country may be worn on the left breast of the karate-gi

jacket provided it does not exceed an overall size of 8cm by 12cm.

3. The karate-gi jacket must be more than three-quarters thigh length.

4. The karate-gi trousers must cover at least two-thirds of the shin.

5. The karate-gi jacket sleeve must be no longer than the bend of the wrist.

6. If a contestant’s karate-gi jacket sleeves are too long and a suitable replacement cannot be found in time

the Referee can allow him to turn them up on the inside.

7. Competitors may wear 1 or 2 discreet rubber band or pony tail retainer in their hair. Ribbons, beads and

other decorations are prohibited.

8. Earrings are allowed if they are covered with tape.

9. Metallic teeth (dental) braces may be worn at the contestant’s own risk if approved by the Referee and the

Official Doctor.

10. Contestants must bow properly to each other at the start and end of the bout.

11. The coach may change the team fighting order during a round.

12. If a contestant is injured in an individual match the coach can enter a replacement if he notifies the

Organising Commission first.

13. If two teams have the same number of victories, the next consideration in deciding the winner, is to

count the points, taking both winning and losing fights into account.

14. If two teams have the same number of victories and points, a deciding bout will be held.

15. If a contestant comes into the area inappropriately dressed, he/she will not be immediately disqualified.

16. Disqualification by Kiken means that the contestants are disqualified from that category.

17. The coach shall at all times during the tournament display official identification.

18. Senior Male bouts are three minutes, and Women, Cadets, and Juniors, two minutes.

19. Senior individual Male bouts for medals are three minutes and for Female two minutes.

20. Under 21 years Male bouts are always three minutes and for Female two minutes.

21. A competitor does not need to change the jacket if ties are torn off during the match.

22. A Jodan kick slightly deficient in Zanshin may be given Ippon because it is considered to be a

technically difficult technique.

23. A fast combination of Chudan Geri and Tsuki each of which score in their own right will be given Ippon.

24. In Senior matches a light “glove touch” to the throat need no result in a warning or penalty provided

there is no actual injury.

25. A kick in the groin will not result in a penalty provided the offender did not do it intentionally.

26. Category 1 and Category 2 penalties do not cross-accumulate.

27. If Senshu is withdrawn when it is less than 15 seconds left of the bout, no further Senshu can be

awarded to either competitor.

28. Should a competitor that has been awarded Senshu receives a Category 2 warning for avoiding combat

when there is less then 15 seconds left of the bout – the competitor will automatically forfeit this advantage.

29. Category 1 Keikoku is normally given when the contestant’s potential for winning is slightly diminished

by the opponent’s foul.

30. Category 1 Hansoku-Chui may be imposed directly.

31. Hansoku-Chui is given when the contestant’s potential for winning has been seriously reduced by the

opponent’s foul.

32. In order to take away Senshu, the referee must first show the sign for the applicable warning followed by

the sign for Senshu and then the sign of annulment (Torimasen) to solicit the support of the judges.

33. Chukoku, Keikoku and Hansoku-Chui are warnings.

34. Hansoku is imposed for serious rules infractions.

35. Shikkaku can only be imposed after a warning has been given.

36. If a contestant acts maliciously, Shikkaku and not Hansoku is the correct penalty.

37. If a contestant acts maliciously, Hansoku is the correct penalty.

38. A competitor can be given Shikkaku if the behaviour of the coach or non-combatant members of the

contestant’s delegation is considered to harm the prestige and honour of Karate-do.

39. A public announcement of Shikkaku must be made.

40. Competitors who feign injury will be subject to the strongest penalties, up to and including suspension

for life for repeated offences.

41. There are five criteria to be met in determining a score.

42. In case of Shikkaku, the Referee Commission whom in turn will submit their report to the EC in the

event that they deem further sanction is warranted.

43. If two Judges signal Ippon for Aka, and the other two Ippon for Ao, the Referee will give both scores.

44. If after Yame, three Judges do not signal and the fourth Judge signals Ippon for Ao the Referee will give

the score.

45. It is not possible to give a warning for excessive contact then give another warning of the same degree

for a second instance of excessive contact.

46. If the coach continues to interfere after first warning, the Referee will stop the bout, approach the coach

again and ask him/her to leave the tatami.

47. If Aka scores just as Ao steps outside of the match area, both the score and a Category 2 warning or

penalty can be given.

48. If a contestant has been physically propelled from the area, Jogai will be given.

49. According to Article 10 when a competitor falls, is thrown or knocked down and does not regain his or

her feet immediately the Referee will signal the Timekeeper to start the tensecond countdown by blowing

his whistle.

50. According to the “Ten Second Rule” the Timekeeper will stop the clock when the competitor stands

fully upright and the Referee raises his arm.

51. Any competitor who falls, is thrown, or knocked down, and does not regain his or her feet within ten

seconds, will be automatically withdrawn from the tournament.

52. If two contestants injure each other at the same time and are unable to continue, the bout is awarded to

the contestant who has amassed the most points.

53. A contestant who scores and exits the area before the Referee calls Yame will not receive Jogai.

54. Contestants cannot be given penalties after the time-up bell has signalled the end of a bout.

55. In Junior competition any technique to the face, head or neck, which causes injury will be warned or

penalised unless it is the recipient’s own fault.

56. In Cadet and Junior competition Jodan kicks are allowed to make the lightest touch (“skin touch”)

provided there is no injury.

57. In Senior competition a light touch is allowed for Jodan punches and a greater tolerance is allowed for

Jodan kicks.

58. A contestant is not allowed to continue if they are awarded victory by Category 1 Hansoku and this is

the second time that they have won a bout in this manner.

59. The contestant can protest to the Match Supervisor if an administrative mistake has been made.

60. A bad behaviour from a coach does not cause a Shikkaku to his/her competitor and the competitor does

not need to be expelled from the match/bout.

61. When the Judges see a score they will immediately signal with the flags.

62. The use of bandages is allowed if approved by the Official Doctor.

63. The Referee Panel for each match shall consist of one Referee, four Judges and one Match Supervisor.

64. If after the bout has started a contestant is found not to be wearing a gum-shield the contestant will be

disqualified.

65. The Referee will give all commands and make all announcements.

66. When two Judges signal a score for the same competitor, the Referee may decline to stop the bout if he

believes them to be mistaken.

67. If three Judges signal a score for Aka the Referee must stop the bout even if he believes they are

mistaken.

68. If two or more Judges signal a score for the same competitor the Referee must stop the bout.

69. The timing of a bout starts when the Referee gives the signal to start and stops when the Referee calls

“Yame” or when the time is up.

70. The Referee Panel of a Kumite match shall consist of a Referee, four Judges, a Match Supervisor and a

Score Keeper.

71. When a competitor slips and falls with the torso not touching the Tatami and is immediately scored upon

the opponent will be awarded Ippon.

72. The competitor’s coach or its official representative are the only ones allowed to make a protest.

73. If the Referee does not hear the time-up signal the Match Supervisor will blow the whistle.

74. Any protest concerning application of the rules must be announced by the coach no later than one minute

after the end of the bout.

75. In individual matches a contestant who withdraws voluntarily from the bout is declared Kiken and an

extra eight points are awarded to the opponent.

76. Awareness or Zanshin is the state of continued commitment, which endures after the technique has

landed.

77. If the organizer has a check-up of equipment before line-up, it is still Kansa´s responsibility to ensure

that the equipment is in accordance with the rules.

78. A contestant who stays within the match area may score on a contestant outside the match area.

79. Atoshi Baraku means “15 seconds of bout time remaining”.

80. Atoshi Baraku means “10 seconds of bout time remaining”.

81. A “skin touch” to the throat is allowed only in Senior competition.

82. If there are no points at the end of a bout in team matches the Referee will call for Hantei.

83. Excessive contact after repeated failure to block is a consideration for Mubobi.

84. A contestant may be penalised for exaggeration even when there is an actual injury.

85. Over the shoulder throws such as Seio Nage, Kata Garuma etc., are permitted only if the contestant holds

onto the opponent to permit a safe landing.

86. Records kept of the match shall become official records subject to the approval of the Match Supervisor.

87. When the Referee Panel has made a decision not in accordance with the Rules of Competition, the

Match Supervisor will immediately blow his whistle and raise the flag.

88. A competitor should not be penalized for being winded (loss of breath as a consequence of a technique)

or simply reacting to an impact even if the technique merited a point by the opponent.

89. In team matches there is no extra bout.

90. When the Referee wants to consult the Judges about a penalty for contact he can speak to them briefly as

the Doctor is tending to the injured competitor.

91. In Cadet competition only a very light touch to the face mask can be scored.

92. Competitors that are winded as a result of an impact should be allowed time to catch their breath before

the bout is resumed.

93. Match supervisor (Kansa) has to blow his whistle if the judges miss a point

94. A competitor who has a Category 2 Hansoku Chui and then exaggerates the effect of a slight contact will

be given Hansoku.

95. Hansoku Chui will be given for feigning of injury.

96. Hansoku will be given for the first instance of exaggerating an injury.

97. If after Yame two Judges signal Yuko for Ao, and one Judge Yuko for Aka, the Referee can give a score

to Aka.

98. A competitor can be given Hansoku directly for exaggerating the effects of injury.

99. A technique even if effective, delivered after an order to suspend or halt the bout shall not be scored and

may result in a penalty being imposed on the offender.

100. In Cadet Kumite Jodan kicks are allowed to make a “skin touch” provided there is no injury.

101. Before the start of a match or bout the Tatami Manager should examine the competitor’s medical card.

102. If there is an error in charting and the wrong contestants compete this cannot be changed afterwards.

103. An effective technique delivered at the same time as the end of the bout is signalled by the buzzer is

valid.

104. If a contestant is injured and it is considered to be their own fault (Mubobi), the Referee Panel will

decline to give a penalty to the opponent.

105. Kansa has no vote or authority in matters of judgments such as whether a score was valid or not.

106. Yuko is always awarded for punches on the back.

107. The Match Supervisor may request the Referee to stop a bout if he has observed a Jogai which the

Judges has overlooked.

108. A contestant who does not obey the Referee's orders will be given Hansoku.

109. A contestant who does not obey the Referee's orders will be given Shikkaku.

110. The Score Supervisor will order the Referee to halt the match when he sees a contravention of the

Rules of Competition.

111. If in a combination, the first technique merits a Yuko and the second merits a penalty, both shall be

given.

112. When a contestant slips, falls, or is otherwise off their feet with the torso touching the floor and is

scored upon, the opponent will be awarded Ippon.

113. It is not possible to score while lying on the floor.

114. A competitor not wearing the WKA approved equipment will be given one minute to change for the

approved type.

115. A contestant injured in Kumite and withdrawn under the ten-second rule may not compete in the Kata

competition.

116. An injured contestant who has been declared unfit to fight by the Tournament Doctor cannot fight again

in that competition.

117. If a competitor behaves badly on the competition area after the end of the match or bout, the Referee

can still give Shikkaku.

118. The Match Supervisor has a vote in cases of Shikkaku.

119. In Male team matches if a team wins three bouts then the match is over at that point.

120. In Female team matches if a team wins two bouts then the match is over at that point.

121. When a contestant seizes the opponent and does not perform an immediate technique or throw the

Referee will call “Yame”.

122. When a Judge is not sure that a technique actually reached a scoring area he should not support the

other Judges.

123. A contestant who commits an act which harms the prestige and honour of Karate-do will be given

Hansoku.

124. When an action of a contestant is considered to be dangerous and deliberately violates the rules

concerning prohibited behaviour, the contestant will be given Shikkaku.

125. When the Referee stops the bout because he has seen a score and the four Judges do not give any signal

the Referee can give the score.

126. When there is a clear contravention of the rules the Match Supervisor will halt the match and instruct

the Referee to correct the problem.

127. If two Judges signal Yuko for Aka and one Judge Waza-Ari for Ao and the Referee wants to give

Waza-Ari for Ao, he should ask the fourth Judge for his opinion.

128. At Hantei if three Judges signal victory for Aka and the fourth Judge together with the Referee signal

victory for Ao, he must give victory for Aka.

129. If a Judge sees a Jogai he should tap the floor with the appropriate flag and signal a Category 2 offence.

130. If one Judge signals score for Ao the Referee must stop the match.

131. If a contestant does not regain his or her feet within ten seconds, the Referee will announce “Kiken”

and “Kachi” to the opponent.

132. If a competitor is thrown and lands partly outside the match area, the Referee will immediately call

“Yame”.

133. Kansa has to blow the whistle if Judges don’t support the Referee when asking for a Cat.1 or Cat.2

warning or penalty.

134. The contestants should be examined outside the tatami.

135. Kansa has to blow the whistle if the Judges is holding the flags in the wrong hands.

136. Gum-shields (mouth guards) are obligatory for all Kumite contestants.

137. After a throw the Referee will allow a maximum of two seconds for a score to be made.

138. If a competitor scores with a strong side kick and propels the opponent out of the area, the Referee

should award Waza-Ari and give the opponent a Category 2 warning or penalty for Jogai.

139. When an official protest is lodged the ensuing matches must be delayed until the result of the protest is

given.

140. Each Judge will be seated in the corners of the tatami in the safety area.

141. If the Referee ignores two or more Judges signalling a score for a contestant, the Match Supervisor

must blow his whistle and rise the flag.

142. When the Referee awards a point for a technique which has caused injury the Match Supervisor should

signal for the match to be stopped.

143. When the Referee fails to hear the “time-up” bell the Scorekeeper should blow his whistle.

144. When a contestant is thrown according to the rules, slips, falls, or is otherwise off their feet, with the

torso on the tatami and is scored upon by the opponent the score will be Ippon.

145. When the Referee wants to give Shikkaku he will call the Judges for a brief consultation.

146. When a competitor is injured during a bout in progress and needs medical treatment three minutes will

be given in which to receive it, after that the Referee will decide whether the competitor will be declared

unfit to fight or whether more time will be given.

147. A contestant who exits the area (Jogai) with less than 15 seconds of bout time remaining will be given a

minimum of Keikoku.

148. To correct a score given to the wrong contestant the Referee should turn towards the contestant given

the score in error, make the sign of Torimasen, and then give the score to the opponent.

149. If a competitor scores with a well-controlled Chudan Geri, then accidentally punches his opponent in

the face causing a slight injury, Waza-Ari and a warning should be given.

150. When an injured contestant has been given medical treatment and the Official Doctor says that the

contestant can continue fighting the Referee cannot over-rule the Doctor's decision.

151. The Referee can stop the bout even if the Judges do not signal.

152. When the bout has been halted and only one Judges have a signal the Referee will give Torimasen and

restart the bout.

153. “Avoiding Combat” refers to a situation where a contestant attempts to prevent the opponent from

having the opportunity to score by using time wasting behaviour.

154. During the extra bout in team matches if two contestants injure each other and cannot continue and the

points score is equal the winner will be decided by Hantei.

155. In team matches if two contestants injure each other and cannot continue and the points score is equal

the Referee will announce Hikiwake.

156. When there are less than 15 seconds of bout time remaining and a losing competitor, desperately trying

to equalise, exits the area (Jogai) they will be given a minimum of Category 2 Hansoku-Chui.

157. Techniques which land below the belt cannot score.

158. Techniques, which land on the shoulder blade, can score.

159. If Aka accidentally kicks Ao on the hip and Ao cannot continue the bout then Ao will be given Kiken.

160. If a contestant is obviously out of breath due to lack of endurance, he Referee should stop the match to

give him time to recover.

161. A contestant who establishes a clear lead of eight points is declared the winner.

162. When time is up; the contestant who has scored the most points is declared the winner.

163. Kansa has to blow the whistle if Judges don’t support the Referee when asking for a Cat.1 or Cat.2

warning or penalty.

164. In team matches should a competitor receive Hansoku their score if any will be zeroed and the

opponent’s score will be set at eight points.

165. In team matches should a competitor receive Kiken their score if any, will be zeroed and the opponent’s

score will be set at eight points. 166. In team matches should a competitor receive Shikkaku their score if

any, will be zeroed and the opponent’s score will be set at eight points.

167. A warning or penalty for Mubobi is only given when a competitor is hit or injured through his own

fault or negligence.

168. A competitor who is hit through their own fault and exaggerates the effect should receive a warning or

penalty for Mubobi or exaggeration but not both.

169. If a competitor makes a good Chudan kick and the opponent catches the leg a score cannot be given.

170. A competitor makes a Jodan kick with all six scoring criteria. The opponent puts his hand up to

intercept the kick and the hand then lightly hits his own face; the Referee can give Ippon since the kick was

not effectively blocked.

171. A male team can compete with only two competitors.

172. Authorised advertising for WKF is displayed on the left sleeve of the karate-gi.

173. National Federations are not allowed to put advertising on the competitor’s karate-gi.

174. A Kumite competitor who receives Kiken cannot compete again in that tournament.

175. An extra bout is used only for team matches.

176. Kansa needs to raise the flag and blow the whistle if the Referee gives a score to a competitor and

Mubobi to the other.

177. A Female team can compete with only two competitors.

178. In international competitions the Referee must not have the same nationality as either of the

competitors although one of the Judges can if both coaches agree.

179. The Match Supervisor will line up together with the Referee and the Judges.

180. The coaches will be seated outside the safety area, on their respective sides facing towards the official

table.

181. Kansa does not need to interfere if the Referee gives a score to a competitor and exaggeration Cat. 2 to

the other.

182. In team matches the Panel will rotate for each bout - provided that all hold the required license.

183. In team matches the Panel will rotate for each bout only in bouts for medals.

184. The Referee can move about the entire tatami including the safety zones.

185. Female competitors must have chest protector.

186. Female competitors don’t have to have chest protector if they have body protector.

187. The red and blue belts must be without any personal embroideries or markings. 188. Personal

embroideries or markings in the red and blue belts are allowed only in Kata competition. 189. Contestants

must wear a white karate-gi without personal embroidery.

190. Personal embroidery in the karate-gi are allowed only in bouts for medals.

191. In order to give points, warnings or/and penalties the Referee must have a minimum of two Judges

showing the same signal.

192. If two Judges hold an opposing opinion to the two other Judges for the same competitor the Referee

will decide the outcome.

193. If two Judges signal for score and the other two signal for warning for the same competitor the Referee

will ask the Tatami Manager.

194. Judges cannot indicate a score or warning before the Referee stops the bout.

195. The Referee will always await the opinion of the Judges before giving a score, warning or penalty.

196. If 2 flags for the same contestant show a different score the lower score will be applied.

197. If 2 flags for the same contestant show a different score the highest score will be applied.

198. If 2 flags for the same contestant show a different score the Referee will give Torimasen.

199. If a contestant scores with more than one consecutive technique before Yame, the Judges must show

the higher point regardless of which sequence the techniques scored.

200. In team matches, if after the extra bout there are no scores, or it is equal scores with no Senshu, the

match will be decided by Hantei.

201. Jogai occurs when a contestant exits from the competition area and it is not caused by the opponent.

202. The minimum warning for running away, avoiding combat or/and wasting time during Atoshi Baraku is

Hansoku Chui.

203. Passivity is a Category 2 prohibited behavior.

204. Passivity is a Category 1 prohibited behavior.

205. Kansa does not need to interfere if the Referee gives a score for a technique done after Yame or after

the time is up.

206. Yuko worth one point.

207. Waza-Ari worth two points.

208. Ippon worth three points.

209. It is the duty of the Match Supervisor to ensure before each match or bout that the competitors are

wearing the approved equipment.

210. It is the duty of the Tatami Manager to ensure before each match or bout that the competitors are

wearing the approved equipment.

211. Coaches must present their accreditation together with that of their competitor or team to the official

table.

212. Waza-Ari is awarded for Chudan Kicks.

213. Yuko is awarded for any Tsuki or Uchi delivered to any of the seven scoring areas against a competitor

that is standing up or off his/her feet and the torso is not on the mat.

214. Ippon is awarded for Jodan Geri and scoring techniques which are delivered on an opponent who has

been thrown, has fallen of their own accord, or is otherwise off their feet.

215. Individual bouts cannot be declared a tie.

216. One of the criteria for decision is the superiority of tactics and techniques displayed by the contestants.

217. There are four prohibited behaviours in Category 1 and eleven in Category 2.

218. Simulated attacks with the head, knees, or elbows are Category 1 offense.

219. Keikoku is normally imposed where the contestant’s potential for winning is seriously diminished by

the opponent’s foul.

220. The Head Coach of a delegation can protest about a judgment to the members of the Refereeing Panel.

221. In a Kumite Tatami two mats are inverted with the red side turned up in a one meter distance from the

mat centre to form a boundary between the contestants.

222. Jacket ties must be tied.

223. At the beginning of a bout jackets without ties can be used.

224. In individual competition a contestant may be replaced by another after the drawing has taking place.

225. At finals male coaches are required to wear a dark suit, shirt and tie.

226. At finals female coaches may choose to wear a dress, pantsuit or a combination of jacket and skirt in

dark colours.

227. At finals female coaches may not wear religious headwear.

228. The score keeper has to call the Match area controller if score board is not showing the right

information.

229. Competitors are not entitled to a period of time between matches, equal to the standard duration time of

the match, for purpose of rest.

230. Passivity cannot be given after less than the last 15 seconds of the match.

231. Passivity can be given after less than the last 10 seconds of the match.

232. Kansa needs to raise the flag and blow the whistle if the Referee gives a score made by a competitor

when he/she is outside the Tatami.

233. Grabbing the opponents arm or karate-GI with one hand is only allowed for attempting an immediately

scoring technique or takedown.

234. Grabbing the opponent with both hands is never allowed during the match.

235. It is the Tatami Manager’s duty to appoint members for the video review panel.

236. It is the Match Supervisor’s duty to appoint members for the video review panel.

237. The judges shall only signal points scored and Jogai on their own initiative.

238. Kansa needs to raise the flag and blow the whistle if the Referee gives a score for a technique done

after Yame or after the time is up.

239. The Judges will signal their judgement on warnings or penalties indicated by the Referee.

240. The Judges can signal Cat. 2 when a contestant has stepped out of the competition area.

241. The Referee will call Yame when a contestant seizes the opponent and does not perform an immediate

technique or throw.

242. Kansa needs to raise the flag and blow the whistle if the degree of contact Cat. 1 that the panel decided

is not correct.

243. When a contestant seizes the opponent the Referee will give several seconds for the contestant to

perform a throw or technique.

244. Kansa has no vote or authority in matters of judgement such as score was valid or not.

245. The Referee can stop the match and give a point without the Judges opinion.

246. If the referee does not call the doctor in a 10 second rule situation, Kansa must blow the whistle and

rise the flag.

247. The winning team is the one with the most bout victories excluding those won by Senshu.

248. The red and blue belts must be no longer than three-quarters thigh length.

249. Female coaches may wear religiously mandated headwear of a type approved by the WKA for referees

and judges.

250. The correct penalty for feigning an injury when the judges have determined that the technique in fact

was a score is Hansoku.

251. Up to three discreet rubber bands on a single pony tail is permitted.

252. Disqualification by Kiken means that the contestants are disqualified from that category, although it

does not affect participation in another category.

253. Competitors are entitled to a rest period of time between matches, equal to the standard duration time of

the match. The exception is in the case of change of equipment color, where this time is extended to five

minutes.

254. In any bout, if after full time the scores are equal, but one contestant has obtained “first unopposed

score advantage” (Senshu), that contestant will be declared the winner.

255. By “first unopposed score advantage” (Senshu) is understood that one contestant has achieved the first

instance of scoring on the opponent without having the opponent also score before the signal.

256. Where both contestants score before the signal, no “first unopposed score advantage” is awarded and

both contestants retain the possibility of Senshu later in the bout.

257. In the event that a competitor falls, is thrown, or knocked down and does not regain his or her feet

immediately, the Referee will call the doctor, and at the same time start a count to ten indicating his count

showing a finger for each second.

258. An audible signal will be given by the timekeeper 15 seconds before the actual end of the bout and the

Referee will announce “Atoshi Baraku”.

259. Kansa must remain silent if the referee gives a warning or penalty for passivity during Atoshi Baraku.

260. In individual categories a bout can be declared a tie.

TATAMI

The karate tatami is the surface on which kumite and kata bouts take place. The WKA approved tatami is of "puzzle" type, formed by two pieces of 1m x 1m, 2cm thick, that are ed together with a system that stops them from separating while the tatami is being used during training or competition. Their colour is blue and/or red. The tatami must be made of a material with an impact absorption rate which complies with the WKA regulations, to protect the contestants if they fall. The pieces forming the tatami must have two different sides: they must be non-slip on the side in contact with the floor and the upper side must have a friction rate that is compliant with the WKA regulations in order not to provoke excessive friction that may cause injuries and, at the same time, to avoid the contestants from sliding.

The WKA approved tatami is of "puzzle" type, formed by two pieces of 1m x 1m, 2 cm thick, that are fixed together with a system that stops them from separating while the tatami is being used during training or competition.

KARATE-GI

The WKA homologated karate-gi has high quality characteristics that make it worthy of the WKA APPROVED recognition. There are two modalities:

KUMITE: Acrylic fabric, light and breathable.

KATA: Thick cotton fabric.

The two models must carry the manufacturer's brand both at the front of the jacket and behind, under the back of the neck. The WKA APPROVED wording will be indicated on a specific label situated on the inferior seam of the jacket, just above the manufacturer's label.

COACHES

The WKA strongly believes that one of the key elements of the progress of the sport lies in maintaining a globally-respected workforce of coaches. As a result of the WKA's effort to ensure the development of the athletes through the support and expertise they receive from their coaches, Karate's international governing body runs Coaches' programmes throughout the year. In these programmes, coaches can have access to the required level to sit in the coaches' boxes at major international events.

MANUAL

CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR WKA COACHES

INDEX PAGE

1.- SCOPE ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 2.-

APPLICATION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 3.-

DESCRIPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 34.-

OVERVIEW ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55.-

ANNEXES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6 ANNEX I –

ACCREDITATION AGREEMENT FOR COACHES -------------------------------------- 7 ANNEX II –

OFFICIAL PROTESTS-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8 1.- OFFICIAL

PROTESTS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 2.-

COMPOSITION OF THE APPEALS PANEL---------------------------------------------------------------------83.-

APPEALS EVALUATION PROCESS -----------------------------------------------------------------------------8 4.-

DECLINED PROTESTS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 5.-

ACCEPTED PROTESTS----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 6.-

INCIDENT REPORT---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 7.-

POWER AND CONSTRAINTS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10

ANNEX III – ANTI DOPING---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 1.-

FAIR PLAY ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------11 2.-

ANTI DOPING FOR THE WKF CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR COACHES-----------------------12 3.-

WHAT IS AN ANTI DOPING TEST? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------14

ANNEX IV – ETIQUETTE AND MANNERS ------------------------------------------------------------- 15 1.-

“REI” IN VARIOUS SITUATIONS AND TYPES OF BOWING---------------------------------------------15 2.-

“REI” IN KARATE COMPETITION -----------------------------------------------------------------------------15 3.-

THE CORRECT POSTURE FOR THE COACH----------------------------------------------------------------16

CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR COACHES FUNCTIONING AT

WORLD KARATE AUTHORITY EVENTS

1. Scope

These regulations pertain to coaches participating in official WKA events, and any other event directly

sanctioned by the WKA. The function of this program is to establish a standard rather than being a fully

fledged training program. The primary education of coaches will remain within the National Federations;

much in the same manner as it functions today for the education of referees.

2. Application

The WKF Technical Commission is responsible for the implementation of these regulations. Any revision,

change or exceptions to these rules are subject to the decision of the WKA Executive Committee.

3. Description

3.1 All coaches of athletes representing WKA National Federations must sign the “Accreditation Agreement

for Coaches” in order to be functioning at WKA sanctioned events. The signed agreement is retained by the

WKA Technical commission. Record of any dismissed protest by the coach, and any sanction against the

coach and his/her administered athletes.

3.2 The “Accreditation Agreement for Coaches” is both a basic work description for the coach function and

the coach’s personal agreement and commitment to the standards set forth in the agreement. The signature

of the Accreditation Agreement for Coaches is a requirement for holding a valid accreditation as a coach at a

WKA event.

3.3 The Certification Program for Coaches is divided into three different levels:

An “Accredited Coach” is simply a coach that has been designated by his/her National Federation for this

role, has signed off the Accreditation Agreement for Coaches, and has attended a compulsory coach briefing

for accreditation. This briefing will take the candidates through the elements of the Accreditation Agreement

for Coaches, the WKA rules for protests and the WKA doping regulations. No formal test is required at this

level.

The “Accredited Coach” is the minimum level required to take part in the Karate 1 events.*

The second level, “Certified Kumite Coach” or “Certified Kata Coach”, requires the function as a coach

on an international level, and passing a formal test on the rules for either Kumite or Kata (as applicable). In

order to apply for the test, the applicant must have his/her Federation sign up the applicant for the test. By

applying the National Federation certifies that the applicant has been functioning as coach for national team

member(s). If the applicant passes the written exam, a diploma will be issued to the applicant with an expiry

period of three years. After three years the applicant must repeat the written exam for re-certification.

The “Certified Kumite or Kata Coach” is the minimum level required to take part in the World

Championships, whether Senior or Junior & Cadet and U21, in Kumite or Kata bouts, as it corresponds.*

The third level, “Certified Karate Coach” may be awarded to coaches who have completed both the

“Certified Kumite Coach” and “Certified Kata Coach” requirements, has served as a coach at WKA events

for at least five years, does not have multiple rejected protests over the last two years, and has no record of

breach of the Accreditation Agreement for Coaches for a period of five years.

The Executive Committee will be able to make reasoned exceptions and also award directly this “Certified

Karate Coach” level in special cases.

3.4 The WKA Technical Commission shall withhold the diploma from any applicant having issued multiple

invalid protests within the last two years, or having any disciplinary sanction held against him/her by the

WKA for the same period of time. In such cases the Technical Commission shall refer the case to the

Executive Committee with their recommendation for solution.

3.5 The WKA Technical Commission may revoke or suspend a certification at any time for any breach of

the Accreditation Agreement for Coaches. Any such action must be recorded on the back of the person’s

signed Accreditation Agreement for Coaches by a representative of the Technical Commission. Any coach,

previously accredited, or certified, having the accreditation removed, must pass the applicable written

examination for certified kumite or kata coach in order to be eligible for re-certification, regardless if any

exam has been passed before. A coach of previous accredited status, being re-instated as accredited, will not

automatically obtain certified status by passing the written exam.

3.6 The Technical Commission, may upon instruction of the Executive Committee or at their own

discretion, award certifications to known experienced coaches without formal testing provided

that the candidate signs the Accreditation Agreement for Coaches, has the required experience for the

certification and no disciplinary record with WKA.

* These minimum level requirements will be valid as of 1st January 2016.

ANNEX I - ACCREDITATION AGREEMENT FOR COACHES

The undersigned hereby agrees to conform to the following conditions as a prerequisite for coaching at

WKA events and obtaining and maintaining WKA coaching licenses:

As a coach I am responsible for:

1. the safety and well being of all athletes assigned to me by my National Federation, both inside and outside

the competition area;

2. the courteous and disciplined conduct of myself and my assigned athletes, both inside and outside the

competition area;

3. the adherence of myself and my assigned athletes to instructions given by the referee or other empowered

tournament officials;

4. the adherence of my assigned athletes to the current anti-doping rules;

5. to keep myself abreast of current competition rules and ensure that my assigned athletes abide by the

same rules;

6. avoiding protests without basis in the rules.

I hereby confirm that I understand that by non-compliance of this Accreditation Agreement may forfeit my

right to coach at WKA events, and that such non-compliance may result in the revocation or suspension of

any coaching license issued to me by the WKA, based on the decision of the Technical Commission.

NAME : …………………………………………………………………………………………………….

NATIONAL FEDERATION:………………………………………………………………………………

Date: ………………………………………. Signature: ……………………………………………………….

ANNEX II - OFFICIAL PROTESTS

ARTICLE 11 OF THE WKA KATA AND KUMITE COMPETITION RULES

1. Official Protests

1. No one may protest about a Judgement to the members of the Refereeing Panel.

2. If a Refereeing procedure appears to contravene the rules, the President of the Federation or the official

representative is the only one allowed to make a protest.

3. The protest will take the form of a written report submitted immediately after the bout in which the protest

was generated. (The sole exception is when the protest concerns an administrative malfunction. The Match

Area Controller should be notified immediately the administrative malfunction is detected).

4. The protest must be submitted to a representative of the Appeals Jury. In due course the Jury will review

the circumstances leading to the protested decision. Having considered all the facts available, they will

produce a report, and shall be empowered to take such action as may be called for.

5. Any protest concerning application of the rules must be made in accordance with the complaints

procedure defined by the WKA EC. It must be submitted in writing and signed by the official representative

of the team or contestant(s).

6. The complainant must deposit a Protest Fee as agreed by the WKA EC, and this, together with the protest

must be lodged with a representative of the Appeals Jury.

2. Composition of the Appeals Panel

The Appeals Jury is comprised of three Senior Referee representatives appointed by the Referee

Commission (RC). No two members may be appointed from the same National Federation. The RC should

also appoint three additional members with designated numbering from 1 to 3 that automatically will replace

any of the originally appointed Appeals Jury members in a conflict of interest situation where the jury

member is of the same nationality or have a family relationship by blood or as an In-Law with any of the

parties involved in the protested incident, including all members of the Refereeing panel involved in the

protested incident.

3. Appeals Evaluation Process

It is the responsibility of the party receiving the protest to convene the Appeals Jury and deposit the protest

sum with the Treasurer.

Once convened, the Appeals Jury will immediately make such inquiries and investigations, as they deem

necessary to substantiate the merit of the protest. Each of the three members is obliged to give his/her

verdict as to the validity of the protest. Abstentions are not acceptable.

4. Declined Protests

If a protest is found invalid, the Appeals Jury will appoint one of its members to verbally notify the protester

that the protest has been declined, mark the original document with the word “DECLINED”, and have it

signed by each of the members of the Appeals Jury, before depositing the protest with the Treasurer, who in

turn will forward it to the Secretary General.

5. Accepted Protests

If a protest is accepted, the appeals Jury will liaise with the Organizing Commission (OC) and Referee

Commission to take such measures as can be practically carried out to remedy the situation including the

possibilities of:

Reversing previous judgments that contravene the rules

Voiding results of the affected matches in the pool from the point previous to the incident

Redoing such matches that have been affected by the incident

Issuing a recommendation to the RC that involved Referees are evaluated for correction or sanction

The responsibility rests with the Appeals Jury to exercise restraint and sound judgment in taking actions that

will disturb the program of the event in any significant manner. Reversing the process of the eliminations is

a last option to secure a fair outcome.

The Appeals Jury will appoint one of its members who will verbally notify the protester that the protest has

been accepted, mark the original document with the word “ACCEPTED”, and have it signed by each of the

members of the Appeals Jury, before depositing the protest with the Treasurer, who will return the deposited

amount to the protestor, and in turn forward the protest document to the Secretary General.

6. Incident Report

Subsequent to handling the incident in the above prescribed manner, the Jury Panel will reconvene and

elaborate a simple protest incident report, describing their findings and state their reason(s) for accepting or

rejecting the protest. The report should be signed by all three members of the Appeals Jury and submitted to

the Secretary General.

7. Power and Constraints

The decision of the Appeals Jury is final, and can only be overruled by a decision of the Executive

Committee. The Appeals Jury may not impose sanctions or penalties.

Their function is to pass judgment on the merit of the protest and instigate required actions from the RC and

OC to take remedial action to rectify any Refereeing procedure found to contravene the rules.

EXPLANATION:

I.The protest must give the names of the contestants, the Referee Panel officiating, and the precise details of

what is being protested. No general claims about overall standards will be accepted as a legitimate protest.

The burden of proving the validity of the protest lies with the complainant.

II. The protest will be reviewed by the Appeals Jury and as part of this review, the Jury will study the

evidence submitted in support of the protest. The Jury may also study videos and question Officials, in an

effort to objectively examine the protest's validity.

III. If the protest is held by the Appeals Jury to be valid, the appropriate action will be taken. In addition, all

such measures will be taken to avoid a recurrence in future competitions. The deposit paid will be refunded

by the Treasury.

IV. If the protest is held by the Appeals Jury to be invalid, it will be rejected and the deposit forfeited to

WKA.

V. Ensuing matches or bouts will not be delayed, even if an official protest is being prepared. It is the

responsibility of the Arbitrator, to ensure that the match has been conducted in accordance with the Rules of

Competition.

VI. In case of an administrative malfunction during a match in progress, the Coach can notify the Match

Area Controller directly. In turn, the Match Area Controller will notify the Referee.

ANNEX III - ANTI DOPING

1.Fair Play

o Doping means the use of prohibited substances in order to raise the competing abilities, or hiding the use

of prohibited substances.

o Fair play in accordance with the competition rules is the major premise of all sports. Doping is an act

against the spirit of fair play and is regarded as dishonest behavior.

o With the cooperation of IOC and IFs, the World Anti-Doping Agency is taking a leading part in

eliminating the use of prohibited substances.

o The WADA Code should be followed by every sportsman in the world.

o Prohibited substances and methods will be divided into the following three groups:

Substances and methods prohibited at all times (in and out-of competition)

Substances and methods prohibited during competition

Substances and methods prohibited at the specified competition

***The list will be renewed every year on January 1.

o Anti-doping tests will be carried out to detect the use of prohibited substances during the competition and

also out-of-competition according to the competitor’s whereabouts information.

o Supplements which do not indicate their exact ingredients may possibly include some prohibited

substances. Every competitor has to take responsibility for his/her own supplement(s).

o Prohibited substances have some side effects. For example, anabolic agents (muscle enhancing drugs) will

cause serious problems in the mind and body, such as liver function disorders, mental insecurity and many

others.

o Anti-Doping Tests will be carried out accurately following the WADA code so that the procedure and its

analytical result can be trusted and the athlete’s innocence can be proved.

o In the case that the use of prohibited substances and/or methods is due to medical treatment, TUE

(Therapeutic Use Exemptions) will be required.

o TUE will be examined and approved by the International Federation or the TUE committee of the country

concerned. In principle, documents relating to TUE should be presented 30 days prior to the competition. o

TUE documents should be presented to the Anti-doping agency in the country concerned, but the athletes

nominated by the International Federation apply through the International Federation. The result will be

notified from where they have applied.

o TUE will be accepted in the following cases: Legitimate Medical Treatment (Otherwise, it might cause

the serious problem) No other treatment exists

The use of the prohibited substances will affect only the

maintenance of good health, and not strengthen the ability of competing.

o In the case of the use of prohibited substances for an emergency, TUE should be requested after the event.

(TUE will be approved only in cases of real emergency).

o In a case where the analysis shows a positive reaction, no sanction will be applied immediately and there

will be an opportunity for the athlete concerned to offer an explanation or an excuse.

o Examples of sanctions will include the loss of the title, medal, prize or score won in the competition

concerned, or suspension from the tournament.

o Others:

Visit the WADA web page (www.wada-ama.org)

2. Anti-Doping for the WKA Certification Program for Coaches

2a. How to be sure the drugs used are not on the prohibited doping list

Each athlete or athlete supporting personnel (like a coach) has to check the last version of the doping

prohibited list since this list changes at least once a year. They have to know what substances and methods

are banned; memorizing the list is not recommended. In order to check all prescribed substances they can

check the drugs online via a doping drug data bank of an Anti Doping Organization.

2b. Nutritional supplements may make a positive doping test Scientific research and documents show that

significant parts of nutritional supplements are not original. Besides, an average of 20 percent of original

nutritional supplements is contaminated by prohibited substances; anabolic steroids and stimulants are the

main added substances that are never mentioned on supplements´ ingredients labels.

2c. How you can request and get Therapeutic Use Exemption Sometimes athletes have to use drugs due to

their medical treatments. These cases have to know the formalities of how to apply and get Therapeutic Use

Exemption award.

2d. Whereabouts and Athlete's availability for Out Of Competition Testing (OOCT) All athletes should be

ready to undergo anti doping tests In Competition or OOCT anytime and anywhere. Refusing to collaborate

with this regulation is known as an anti doping violation and will be exposed to a sanction. Whereabouts

data bank helps to get OOCT, and any failure to send and regularly update the information of whereabouts

may lead to a missed test, and consequently to an anti doping violation and a sanction.

ANNEX IV – ETIQUETTE AND MANNERS

1. “REI” in Various Situations and Types of Bowing

The way of greeting others differs depending on the country, culture and custom. There are various

situations (arriving, receiving, leaving) and styles of bowing, e.g. to family members or parents, to

acquaintances, friends or close friends, to one’s superiors or juniors, or to strangers, but in any and every

case, the bow shows the respect for others.

2. “REI” in Karate Competition, the Mind of Martial Arts

“REI” in karate competition, which means the mind of martial arts, has been cultivated through the

culture of martial arts over the years. “REI” in the martial arts shows the affection and respect for the

opponent, and is the equivalent of an oath to compete with the fair play spirit.

WKF Dan Grade Regulation 2

APPROVED Nov 2017 Preamble

All WKA National Federations have the authority to request WKA diplomas for Dan grades up to and

including 7th Dan provided that the candidate has fulfilled the requirements to age and interval since last

grading prescribed by WKA rules. Those wishing WKA diplomas for their grade up to and including 7th

Dan must request these through their National Federation. For any grade above this, it is up to the National

Federation to issue higher Dan for their accomplishments on the national level – but these grades are not

homologated by WKA. In exceptional cases the WKA EC may on its own initiative award a Dan grade

above 7th Dan for outstanding contribution to international karate and the WKA, but by rule WKA is not

issuing WKA Dan grades above 7th Dan based on recommendations or requests by NFs or individuals. 1.

The Dan Grade System 1.1 The Dan Grade system is based on recognition of personal development as

practitioners, technicians, instructors and exponents of karate. For Grades higher than 7th Dan the rank is

recognition of the person’s contribution to karate beyond personal development. 1.2 National Federations

(NF) may only give, or certify, Dan Grades for members of their own National Federation. 1.3 There are

three categories of Dan Grades within the WKA: Grades from 1st up to and including 7th Dan given by a

National Federation. These may be homologated by the WKA upon application from the National

Federation where upon the homologation certificate will be issued by the WKA President for the NF

Presidents´ countersignature. Grades 8th Dan and above awarded by a National Federation for karate

accomplishments at a national level. These are not homologated by, or require registration with, the WKA.

The applicable certificate is issued by the National Federation. Grades 8 th Dan and above awarded by the

WKA Executive Committee (EC) for karate accomplishments at an international level.

The applicable certificate is issued by the WKA.

2. General Requirements 2.

1 The following age and time interval requirements apply to Dan Grades within the WKA:

1 st Dan (shodan) Minimum 15 years of age Minimum 3 years of training

2 nd Dan (nidan) Minimum 17 years of age Minimum 2 years since 1st Dan

3 rd Dan (sandan) Minimum 20 years of age Minimum 3 years since 2nd Dan

4 th Dan (yondan) Minimum 24 years of age Minimum 4 years since 3rd Dan

5 th Dan (godan) Minimum 29 years of age Minimum 5 years since 4th Dan

6 th Dan (rokudan) Minimum 35 years of age Minimum 6 years since 5th Dan

7 th Dan (nanadan) Minimum 42 years of age Minimum 7 years since 6th Dan

8 th Dan (hachidan) Minimum 50 years of age Minimum 8 years since 7th Dan

9 th Dan (kyudan) Awarded for exceptional lifetime achievement for karate

10th Dan (judan) Awarded for exceptional lifetime achievement for karate 3.

Application Process 3.

1 Homologation of Grades given by National Federations:

The WKA homologates Dan Grades from 1st Dan (shodan) through 7th Dan (nanadan) upon receipt of the

application signed by the applicants’ National Federation President and the remittance of the applicable fee

as stipulated by the WKA.

The National Federation must submit its application in official letterhead to the office of the WKA President

listing the candidates and stating the following information:

Title (Mr. or Ms.) Name (as it should appear on the diploma)

Surname (as it should appear on the diploma)

Dan Grade to be recognized

Date of previous WKA Dan Grade

Date of birth

National Federation postal address

By signing the application the National Federation certifies that the applicant has fulfilled the requirements

of the National Federation and the World Karate Authority.

The WKA does not homologate honorary Dan Grades awarded by a National Federation.

The responsibility for maintaining appropriate standards for the approval or award of Dan Grades rests with

the National Federations. Should a National.

WKF Dan Grade Regulation

Federation fail to conform to the homologation requirements that Federation may be subject to the denial of

their members’ Dan Grade homologation.

.2 Grades 8th Dan and above awarded by a National Federation:

The rules and application process of the National Federation applies. Grades higher than 7 th Dan may be

awarded by a National Federation for accomplishments in the development of karate within its National

Federation, but they are not homologated by the WKA.

3.Although Grades above a 7 th Dan awarded by a National Federation are not subject to WKA approval or

homologation, the National Federation must follow the WKA requirements in regards to age and time

intervals between the Grades as given by the WKA.

4. Grades 8th Dan and above awarded by the WKA Executive Committee:

From time to time the WKA will award higher Dan Grades, 8th Dan and above, to individuals for their

accomplishments in international karate. Such Grades are awarded by the WKA Executive Committee (EC).

The president of a Continental or National Federation, the WKA President or any WKA EC Member may

nominate a candidate for Grades 8th Dan or above. The nomination has to be formulated in writing to the

WKA EC stating the information required for homologation (see 3.1 above) plus the persons´ Grading

history and the candidates´ specific accomplishments in international karate. There is no application fee

charged for this category.

The WKA EC will evaluate all applications. If there is no objection from any EC member, the required Dan

Grade will be approved.

4. Diplomas

4.1 Candidates having their Dan Grade homologated by the WKA will receive the WKA applicable diploma

signed by the WKA President and their National Federation President.

4.2 Diplomas for 8 th Dan Grades and above awarded by a National Federation are issued by the applicable

National Federation only.

.3 Persons being awarded a Dan Grade by the WKA Executive Committee will receive a diploma signed by

the WKA.

Diplomas lost or destroyed may be replaced by the WKA by the National Federation raising a duplicate

application, noting on the application that it is issued for the purpose of obtaining a duplicate diploma, and

paying the applicable fee as determined by the WKA.