Karate
Competition Introduction
A martial art and combat sport originating from Okinawa.
- Kata：Demonstration of a series of attack and defence techniques against imaginary opponents
- Kumite：Two athletes fighting 1-on-1 in a court
Basic Rules
Kata
Judging emphasises stance , technique completion, speed and sharpness, including posture beauty
Kumite
Using punch, block, and kick techniques to score points during match time
Unique Aspects of Deaf Sports
Kata
At the start of kata, athletes announce the name of the kata they will perform. Announcement methods include three options: “vocal announcement”,“sign language announcement”, and “no announcement”, with athletes choosing themselves.
Sign language announcement is one of the unique highlights of deaf sports.
The powerful communication of kata names through sign language creates an impressive moment appropriate for competition beginnings.
Kumite
When techniques land, referees signal “stop” to halt the match, but deaf athletes cannot hear referee voices and may continue attacking opponents.
Therefore, lights provide visual signals of referee commands.
Lights are also used for the 15-second remaining buzzer.
The main referee gives vocal “begin match” signals , but provides visual timing signals so deaf athletes can also understand.
This ensures all athletes can begin competition under fair conditions.
Normally coaches sit on the same side (parallel position) as athletes. At the Deaflympics, coaches are positioned diagonally opposite to facilitate eye contact between athletes and coaches. This accommodates smooth communication through sign language and visual signals.
Event
25th Summer Deaflympics Tokyo 2025
Kata
- Individual Kata(Men/Women)
- Team Kata(Women)
Kumite
- Individual(Men):-60kg, -67kg, -75kg, -84kg,⁺84kg
- IIndividual(Women):-50kg, -55kg, -61kg,⁺68kg
