ISKA holds its first national kickboxing championship in South Surrey

International Sport of Kickboxing (ISKA Canada) held its first national championship earlier this month. The Oct. 4 event at White Rock Christian Academy in South Surrey drew more than 320 athletes from across Canada and approximately 1,000 attendees, including coaches, competitors, families, spectators and community supporters. ISKA president and Golden Glory Martial Arts Academy founder Mostafa Sabeti called it a well-attended competition and a “historic milestone” for ISKA and the City of Surrey.

In an email, Sabeti said he was extremely proud to announce that the championship was a tremendous success, marking the first national championship organized by ISKA Canada. Competitors ranged in age from five to seven years old, which Sabeti said showed that martial arts are “truly, a sport for all generations.” Athletes competed in kick-light kickboxing, point sparring, traditional forms (kata), weapons forms, board breaking, high-jump kick and masters divisions, seeking national recognition in a professionally organized, lively championship atmosphere.

Sabeti said politicians at all levels of government shared messages and words of encouragement for the milestone event. He said he was particularly proud to bring the national-level championship to Surrey. Over the past eight months, the organization has hosted three major martial arts competitions, helping establish Surrey as an important destination for amateur combat sports in Canada.

Beyond the competition, Sabeti said, the events create opportunities for local businesses, promote tourism, encourage youth participation in sports and bring communities together. He thanked everyone involved, including volunteers, officials and sponsors. He also said one of the greatest achievements was seeing hundreds of young athletes demonstrate discipline, respect, confidence and sportsmanship — values the organization works to promote through martial arts.

Following the national championship, ISKA Canada is preparing for another major event: the ISKA Amateur World Championships in Madrid, Spain, from Nov. 5 to 8, as well as an event in Surrey on Nov. 28. Sabeti said the organization’s long-term goal is to continue developing amateur combat sports, supporting Canadian athletes, and bringing larger provincial, national and international championships to Surrey.