Joy in Japan as Shortall secures bronze at world championships

Kilkenny martial artist Kevin Shortall was celebrating international success after winning bronze at the 11th JSKA World Karate Championships.

The championships, which were held in Matsuyama, Japan, brought together almost 750 competitors from over 30 countries, making it one of the largest and most competitive karate events in recent years.

Finishing third in the world is a major achievement by Shortall, chief instructor at the Budo Martial Arts Centre, and stands as a major milestone for both himself and the Kilkenny martial arts community.

This year’s world championships were organised by JSKA Headquarters, overseen by Mitsuru Nagaki, JSKA Chief Instructor, and supported by his son Shinji Nagaki, JSKA Japan and members of the Shinankai committee, who ensured the smooth running of this major global event.

The tournament was held in the spectacular Ehime Prefectural Budokan, a 5,000 square metre martial arts arena considered one of Japan’s finest. With multiple competition areas running simultaneously and hundreds of athletes and supporters filling the venue, the scale and atmosphere highlighted the world-class level of the championships.

Shortall’s podium finish was even more remarkable given the depth of talent in attendance. Maintaining precision, composure and technical excellence under pressure, he secured a world bronze medal, a result that reflects decades of dedication to his art.

This latest success, finishing third in the Advanced Veteran Team Kata division, builds on an already impressive competitive record. Shortall previously won double bronze at the 2023 JSKA World Championships in Germany. He is the current Karate Ireland Kobudo Champion and has also enjoyed significant tournament success across both kata and kumite (sparring) throughout his lengthy career.

“Winning a world bronze medal at an event with almost 750 competitors in the homeland of karate is something I am incredibly proud of,” said Shortall. “The standard was extremely high, and to bring a world podium result back to Kilkenny is a fantastic feeling.

“I hope it inspires our students and shows what can be achieved with commitment and hard work.”

Under Shortall’s leadership, Budo Martial Arts Centre continues to grow, training more than 200 students each week at their base in the Watershed, Kilkenny, from beginners to international competitors. His latest achievement further strengthens Kilkenny’s reputation within the global karate community.