Dundee’s preparations to host one of the world’s biggest martial arts events are gathering pace after a meeting between organisers.
The 7th World Union of Karate Federation’s (WUKF) World Karate Championships for All Ages will be held at Dundee Ice Arena from June 12 to 17 2018, bringing more than 4,000 athletes, supporters, coaches and officials from across the globe.
Tayside-based sports club Kanzen Karate secured the right to host the event in March last year after an audacious bid and alongside planners such as Dundee and Angus Convention Bureau and Leisure and Culture Dundee, have worked hard ever since to ensure the event goes as smoothly as possible.
It is estimated the event could generate up to £10 million for the local economy with visitors’ spending in and around the city.
In an event at Dundee City Chambers, civic leaders welcomed WUFK president Dr Liviu Crisan, who is in the city for three days to oversee arrangements.
Kanzen Karate president Roy O’Kane said that although helping organise the event has been stressful, he is excited to see it come to fruition.
He said: “The competition is really going alongside the change in Dundee.
“2018 will be a fantastic year for the city and it’s great to be a part of that.
“It has been hard work but I have been really humbled by how much everyone has bought into it.
“It has been very much a team effort approach and it shows Dundee is a positive place.”
Dundee City Council leader John Alexander said: “Hosting any large-scale event has it’s challenges but the city has a real can-do attitude which will see the event made a success.
“Any issues or barriers have been manoeuvred around and everyone is striving to make it work.
“It also gives us a really good opportunity to put a spotlight on what we are doing in Dundee with 2018 being a pivotal year for our city.”
Romania-native Dr Crisan added: “Everything is going very well although the hotels are booking up very quickly.
“I am excited for the competition and I’m also relaxed because I can see everyone is eager to put on a great event.”
City development convener Lynne Short said: “Roy has worked really hard and it’s been all his work and tenacity that has brought us to this point.
“It will be an amazing platform for Dundee and we are all very supportive.
“It’s more than just an event though. It will leave a legacy for children who may be interested in martial arts in the future.”
