Malta represented by the local Karate school, SKSM KARATE, was amongst eight other countries which participated in the International 8 Nations Karate Championships which were held in Ariano Irpinio, Italy.

The Maltese team achieved extremely good results in this tournament which had an entry field of 380 athletes from 23 different organizations. Countries participated were Italy, Egypt, Hungary, Romania, Switzerland, Israel, Germany and Malta.

The SKSM squad consisting of 8 athletes and headed by SKSM National Karate Coach Mr. Chris Galea, included 1 Male and 1 female Senior teams, have been undergoing intense training for the past months. The team consisted of Lydia Schembri, Steve Polidano, Claire Said, Samwel Schembri, Adonia Sammut, Luka Fenech, Michael Attard and Michael Grima.

Six Gold, 5 Silver and 2 bronze medals were the final official results. The Maltese team also ended up placing 2nd place as overall winners accumulating the 2nd highest points after the home team organizers IKA Italia, from all the 23 organizations participating.

Without doubts the performance and medal haul obtained by the SKSM Malta team put the Maltese at the centre of attraction, earning them words of praise from the foreign officials and judges. Mr. Chris Galea was more than satisfied by the commitment shown by all his students.

Immediately after these championships, another intensive program is being set up for the 3rd Edition of the upcoming Malta International Karate Open Championships next July, 16th, 2005. This year's edition will be hosting a record number of local and International athletes for the Maltese Islands. A good number of countries who already confirmed their participation include athletes from England, Holland, Switzerland, Italy, Wales, Ireland, Belgium, Israel, Austria and Malta. The event comprising of 42 categories will start at 9:00am.

Presently SKSM Karate school is accepting new entrants (children and adults) at its training center in Mosta, where Karate and Self Defence lessons are conducted every day. Those interested may phone on 2145 1906, 7953 7924 or email us on