In year-end message, ITKF chairman celebrates 2024 achievements

At the end of a remarkable season, Gilberto Gaertner discusses the progress made in 2024 and reaffirms the values ​​and purposes of Traditional Karate under the leadership of ITKF Global.

By ITKF Global
December 27, 2024 / Curitiba, PR

“Dear members of ITKF Global family,

We hope that everyone is well, healthy, with your families, and practicing our true Traditional Karate.

The year 2024 was marked by a lot of work and important achievements to strengthen our institution. We had an extensive calendar, strategically well distributed around the world, highlighting our strength and global reach.

We have consolidated strategic partnerships and reaffirmed our international credibility through memberships and renewals with prestigious organizations, such as:

• International Council for Sport Science and Physical Education (ICSSPE),
• International Association for Sport for All (TAFISA),
• International Association of Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS),
• Kimyo International University (KIUT).

In addition, we have established ITKF Global European Union headquarters, recently opened in Vila do Conde, Portugal. This new facility represents a strategic milestone for the expansion and consolidation of our activities in the region, further strengthening our institutional presence and facilitating support for national federations and events held on the European continent.

Among the highlights of the year, we successfully held the Masters Course in Les Sables d’Olonne, France and the 22nd edition of the World Championship, held in Vila do Conde, Portugal. We also promoted several regional events around the world, highlighting the dynamism and scope of our institution, which now operates fully on four continents.

Another important milestone was the completion and launch of the Official ITKF Global Exam Program, developed by our Technical Committee, as well as the introduction of the Institutional Passport, which further strengthens the identity of our members.

We would like to express our deep gratitude to the members of this large and diverse ITKF family. We are grateful for the cooperation and respect that unites us, even in the face of the immense diversity of cultures, languages ​​and beliefs that make up our institution. Our special recognition goes to all who worked tirelessly to ensure high-quality events, whether organizing, supporting or participating. The success achieved in 2024 was the result of the effort, dedication and commitment of everyone, at all levels.

Without a doubt, we have taken a few more steps in building an increasingly solid and respected global ITKF. We remain open to new partnerships and affiliations that can contribute to the dissemination and institutional strengthening of traditional karate.

It is worth remembering that the pillars that support ITKF Global’s traditional karate are the focus on self-defense, optimization of physical and mental health, cognitive development, development of human values and the development of a culture of peace, equality  and sustainability.

We have clear and well-defined goals. The institution will always be our priority and regardless of the difficulties and adversities that may arise, we will move forward with unwavering determination.

We wish everyone a wonderful end of the year with your families and a 2025 full of health, balance, and achievements.

The tradition of ITKF Global continues to grow stronger and stronger!

Greetings to all!”

Gilberto Gaertner
Chairman of ITKF Global