Cambodia’s inaugural karate shotokan competition, titled the HE Sok Se Sophana Championship after the government adviser who sponsored the event, was held over the weekend at the indoor hall of the Olympic Stadium.

While mainly young fighters contested categories during the two-day meet, senior karate figures were at hand to share their knowledge and experience of the discipline to set things on the right path for the 2023 SEA Games, which Cambodia will host.

Five government ministers were also in attendance for Sunday’s closing ceremony, including Tourism Minister Thong Khon; Information Minister Khieu Kanharith; Economy and Finance Minister Oun Porn Moniroth; Education, Youth and Sports Minister Hang Chuon Naron; and Water Resources Minister Lim Kim Hor.