Shotocup Celebrates Martial Arts Excellence with Inaugural Awards Ceremony

In a grand celebration of martial arts talent and dedication, Shotocup, a premier local martial arts event management company, held its first-ever awards ceremony on Saturday, July 16th, at the picturesque Victoria Park. This ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of individual martial artists but also marked a significant milestone for Shotocup. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the company successfully organized four internationally recognized events in its debut year.

Edmond Johnson, the esteemed Director of Shotocup, during his heartfelt opening address, emphasized that the award winners were selected not just based on their exceptional performances during the 2021/2022 season. The criteria extended beyond skill, taking into account their character, exemplary conduct, and invaluable contributions to their respective local dojos.

Arnold Allen, the Co-director of Shotocup, took a moment to address the awardees directly. He commended them for their relentless dedication and hard work, attributing the growth and prominence of karate in Bermuda to their efforts. He said, "Your commitment throughout the year stands as a beacon of professionalism in both sports and the arts."

Adding to the evening's accolades, The Honorable Dr. Ernest Peets, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Sport, and a passionate karate practitioner himself, shared his insights. "Having been a spectator at all of Shotocup's events this season, I am convinced that they have redefined the benchmark for local sporting events. Karate in Bermuda has truly earned its place on the international stage," he remarked.

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the awardees for the first Annual Shotocup Awards. These individuals were recognized for their unparalleled performance, unwavering service, and impeccable conduct:

Tony Cabral - Adult Male Athlete of the Year (2021/2022 season)

Talia Iris - Adult Female Athlete of the Year (2021/2022 season)

Dash Bailey - Youth Male Athlete of the Year (2021/2022 season)

Callahj Simons - Youth Female Athlete of the Year (2021/2022 season)

A hearty congratulations to all the winners of this season! As we celebrate these achievements, we also look forward to the next season, which is set to commence in October 2022. The martial arts community eagerly awaits another year of excellence and inspiration.