The World Karate Federation (WKF) President Antonio Espinós visited the state-of-the-art Karate Centre in Hangzhou during the Karate 1-Premier League event held in the city this past week. The facility, designed to showcase the sport and support elite karate athletes in China, stands as a key hub for the development of karate talent in the country and beyond.

The Hangzhou Karate Centre is an advanced training and competition facility aimed at nurturing and strengthening the growth of karate across the continent. Beyond its world-class training areas, the centre features a dedicated museum that highlights the history of karate in China and the sport's rapid development in recent years.

The visit was led by WKF President Antonio Espinós and hosted by China Karate Association (CKA) President Zhang Zhi. Also in attendance were local officials and representatives of the sport in the Linping District. Their presence emphasized the strong commitment of the region to promoting and advancing karate at all levels.

WKF President Antonio Espinós said:

"The facilities at the Hangzhou Karate Centre are truly outstanding. This centre is a testament to the dedication and vision of the China Karate Association and its leadership under President Zhang Zhi. Their commitment to developing karate in China is exemplary, setting a high standard for effective resource distribution and athlete support. I am confident that this facility will play a crucial role in the continued success of Chinese karate and will inspire future generations of athletes."

Top picture: WKF President Antonio Espinós, with China Karate Association (CKA) President Zhang Zhi, Deputy Mayor of Hangzhou Linping District Wang Yanin, and Deputy Secretary General of the Chinese Karate Association (CKA) Lin Jing during the tour at the Karate museum in Hangzhou.

From left to right: Deputy Secretary General of the Chinese Karate Association (CKA) Lin Jing, WKF President Antonio Espinós, and China Karate Association (CKA) President Zhang Zhi.

The Karate Museum in Hangzhou contains memorabilia and many items highlighting the tremendous progress of Karate in China.