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GUIDING BODIES

World Police and Fire Games Federation (WPFGF)

8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., # 107, San Diego, CA 92111
Tele. (858) 571-9919 FAX: (858) 571-1641 E-MAIL: worldgamesinfo@cpaf.org

World Karate Federation (WKF)

Antonio Espinos,
WKF President
Princesa 22-3o Izqda;
28008 Madrid, Spain
Tele: +34.9.1.542.4625; Fax: +34.9.1.542.4913; Web-Site: www.wkf.net

World Karate Federation (WKF) Rules and Regulations introduced after January of the
year of a World Police and Fire Games competition may not be recognised by the Host and
the World Police and Fire Games Federation, for the conduct of the Karate competition, in
that year

EVENTS

KUMITE:

Men & Women’s Individual Kumite events will be offered for both Kyu Belt and Black
Belt in the following weight and age categories:

Men; 18+, 30+, 40+, 50 & 60+: (Age categories only, see WPFG General Rules under "Age
Rules").

65 kg & under
70 kg & under
75 kg & under
80 kg & under
85 kg & under
Over 85 kg

Women; 18+, 30+ & 50+: (Age categories only, see WPFG General Rules under "Age
Rules").
55 kg & under
60 kg & under
Over 60 kg

Men’s & Women’s Kumite Team events; 18+ only.

Men: 5 competitors + 2 reserves; minimum of 3 to start
Women: 3 competitors + 1 reserve; minimum of 2 to start

KATAS:

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NOTE: The WKF recognizes the four (4) main styles of Karate

All categories for Men’s & Women’s Individual Katas will be offered from 3rd Kyu Belt
and upwards, including Black Belt in the following age categories:

Men; 18+ & 35+

Women; 18+ & 35+

Men’s & Women’s Kata Team events 18+ & 35+ years: 3 competitors in a team

OFFICIALS

Sport Coordinator

Results Record keeper

Head Official shall be in charge of all officials being used for this event. Head Official shall
use qualified officials from the Host’s immediate area, or from the nearest available location.

Refereeing and Judging:

No referee or judge shall be allowed to compete during the Karate competition. Referees and
Judges should be qualified and experienced to the level of international (WKF or
national/state affiliate).

1. Five officials will be required for each match.

2. All Kumite shall be judged by four corner judges and a center referee. Each judge
and the referee shall have a single vote, the majority rules. If there are three votes for a
point for a given competitor, that competitor shall be awarded the point. If there are two
votes for a given competitor, there is no point, or if it is a two to two vote by the judges,
there is no point given.

3. All officials shall hold the rank of at least First Degree Black Belt.

4. All decisions of the officials are final and not to be disputed.

5. An official may not judge or referee a competitor from the same agency to which
he/she is affiliated. If so, the competitor will be disqualified unless agreed upon by both
the fighters. This does not apply to officials and competitors who are only members of
the same association.

6. An instructor may not judge or referee his/her own student. If so, the student will be
disqualified.

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7. All officials have a one point vote in decisions. A majority of the officials must
verify except in the case of head contact, where a majority of the officials are required
to see the contact.

8. When awarding a point the referee is asked to physically demonstrate the scoring
technique.

9. Referees and judges will issue warnings to competitors on the sidelines to remain
kneeling or sitting out of the way of the spectators view.

10. All referees and judges shall wear a blue sports jacket and white shirt with tie
while refereeing; or judging, except when mutually agreed upon to wear another
type of uniform.

MEDICAL

A Physician must be present for the entire competition. Basic medical supplies, such as a
First-Aid Kit, will be provided by the Host at each venue. Communications shall be
available at each venue and preparations made in case it is necessary to summon additional
emergency services.

COMPETITORS’ MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Prior to or during Host Registration

all competitors must submit a Medical Release, signed by a licensed physician and based on
a physical exam conducted within six months of competition. This release may take the form
of a doctor's note stating the entrant's fitness to compete in a contact sport.

FACILITY

Dimensions of the Fighting Area:

1. The competition area must be flat and devoid of hazard.

2. The competition area must be a matted square.

3. The area will be a square, with sides of 8 meters (measured from the outside). The area
may be elevated to a height of up to 1 meter above floor level. The elevated platform should
measure at least 10 meters a side, in order to include both the competition and the safety area.

4. A line of 0.5 meters long must be drawn 2 meters from the center of the competition area
for positioning the Referee.

5. Two parallel lines each 1-meter long and at right angles to the Referee's line, must be
drawn at a distance of 1.5 meters from the center of the competition area for positioning the
competitors.

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6. The arbitrator shall be seated between the scorekeeper and timekeeper.

7. A line must be drawn one meter on the inside of the competition area. The area enclosed
by this line may be in a different color or the line itself may be broken.

Match area measurements and positioning of Referee, Judges, Arbitrator and Contestants. Pre
and post match line up positions for Arbitrator, Referee Judges and Contestants.

EXPLANATION:

There must be no advertisement bordering walls, pillars etc. within one meter of area's outer
perimeter. The mats used should be non-slip where they contact the floor proper but have a
low coefficient of friction on the upper surface. They should not be as thick as Judo mats,
since these impede Karate movement. The Referee must ensure that mat modules do not
move apart during the competition, since gaps cause injuries and constitute a hazard.

UNIFORMS

1a. Contestants must wear a white unmarked Karate Gi without stripes or piping. Only the
national emblem or flag of the country may be worn. This must be on the left breast of the
jacket and may not exceed an overall size of 10 sq.cm. Only the original manufacturer labels
may be displayed on the Gi and in the normally accepted locations (i.e. bottom right corner
of the Gi jacket and waist position on the trousers). In addition, an identifying number issued
by the Organizing Committee may be worn on the back. One must wear a red belt and the
other a white belt. The white and red belts must be around 5 centimeters wide and of a
length sufficient to allow 15 centimeters free on each side of the knot.

1b. Notwithstanding paragraph 1a. above, the Directing Committee may authorize the
display of special labels or trademarks, of approved sponsors.

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2. The jacket, when tightened around the waist with the belt, must be of minimum length that
covers the hips, but no longer than mid thigh. In the case of women, a plain white T-shirt
may be worn beneath the Karate jacket.

3. The maximum length of the jacket sleeves must be no longer then the bend of the wrist
and no shorter than halfway down the forearm. Jacket sleeves may not be rolled up.

4. The trousers must be long enough to cover at least two thirds of the shin and may not be
rolled up.

5. Each contestant must keep his/her hair clean and cut to a length that does not obstruct
smooth bout conduct.

Hachimaki (headband) will not be allowed. Should the Referee consider any
contestant's hair too long and/or unclean, he/she may, with the Referee Council's
approval, disbar the contestant from the bout. In Kumite matches hair slides are
prohibited, as are metal hair grips. In Kata a discreet hair clip is permitted.

6. Contestants must have short fingernails and must not wear metallic or other objects, which
might injure their opponents.

EQUIPMENT

Competitor's Equipment and Safety Requirements:

1. Mitts and gum shields are compulsory. Boxes and soft shin pads are allowed. Shin/instep
protectors are forbidden. Glasses are forbidden (soft contact lenses can be worn at the
contestant's own responsibility). The wearing of unauthorized clothing or equipment is
forbidden. Women may wear the authorized additional protective equipment.

2. The protective equipment must meet standard specifications.

3. The use of bandages or braces because of injury must be approved by the Referee Council,
on the advice of the official doctor.

Competition Equipment:

1. Total number of each item needed will depend on the number of rings used.

2. Equipment per ring:

a) A spray bottle containing seven (7) parts water and one (1) part household bleach
(i.e. Clorox) will be kept at each mat. This mixture will be used to disinfect the
Kumite safety gear, floor or mat whenever any bleeding occurs.
b) 1 stop watch
c) 1 rolled and taped towel

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d) 1 red and 1 white flag or cloth per judge or referee

e) 1 red ribbon
f) 1 or 2 chairs for the timer and Bracket Coordinator
g) 2 clipboards

3. 1 1/2" masking tape for ring outline

4. 1 1/2" red and white tape for fighting lines inside ring

5. 1 weighing scale

SCHEDULING

A minimum of two days should be scheduled for Karate.

WEIGH-IN PROCEDURES

Weighing in of the competitors shall not take place more than 24 hours prior to competition
for the specific weight category.

The weigh-ins shall be conducted in a private room. The room will be available to the
officials at least 15 minutes before the start of the weigh-in.

An accurate scale shall be used. Two chairs and a table shall be provided for the officials to
record the body weights.

BRACKETING

1. 1 to 5 competitors in a class/division: Round Robin, finals from results.

6 or more competitors in a class/division: group play with draw; Double
Elimination finals

2. Competitor will be listed by last name per weight class for first Round Robin matches.

3. If two competitors from the same agency are listed together in the first round,
they will be matched with another competitor if possible.

4. As a last resort, in the case of an odd number of competitors in a weight division, a

bye will be awarded to the top seeded competitor or if none, by the draw of a card.

KUMITE

Scoring:

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1. In the absence of a SANBON score, or of a defeat caused by KIKEN, HANSOKU, or a

SHIKKAKU during the bout a decision is taken on the basis of the following considerations:

a. Whether there have been any IPPONS or WAZA-ARI awarded.

b. The attitude, fighting spirit and strength demonstrated by the contestants.

c. The superiority of tactics and techniques.

2. In individual category where there is no score superiority, then the following procedure
will be followed:

a. If, at the end of a bout, the two contestants have no score, the winning decision shall be
given by HANTEI.

b. If, at the end of a bout, the two contestants have scored equally, the decision for
victory shall be given by HANTEI.

c. If, at the end of a bout, neither contestant has established a superiority, then the decision
for that bout shall be a draw ("HIKIWAKE") and ENCHO-SEN should be announced.

d. A penalty or warning incurred in the bout will be carried forward to the ENCHO-SEN.

3. In team competition the winning team is the one with the most bout victories.

4. If two teams have the same number of victories, the winner is the one whose contestants
have scored the most points, taking both winning and losing fights into account.

5. If two teams have the same number of victories and scores, a deciding bout must be held
between representatives of the two teams. In the event of a continuing tie, there is an
extension ("ENCHO-SEN"). The first contestant to score IPPON or WAZA-ARI is declared
the winner.

6. If there is no decision after a bout of an individual match, an extension ("ENCHO-SEN")

will be fought. In the event of a tied ENCHO-SEN, the majority decision of the panel will be
announced by the Referee.

EXPLANATION:

When scores are unequal, the contestant who completes the bout satisfactorily a Waza-Ari or
Ippon ahead of the opponent shall be given the victory.

Taking the above criteria into account, when a superiority can be established, it is quite in
order for one contestant to be given the victory, even when the score situation is equal.

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When deciding the outcome of a bout by Hantei, the Referee shall step outside of the ring
and call "Hantei" followed by a two-tone blast on his/her whistle. The Judges will indicate
their opinions by means of their flags, the Referee should acknowledge the Judges decision
by a one-tone blast of his/her whistle, then move forward to his/her original position and
announce the majority decision.

The Encho-Sen is an extension of a bout; it is not a separate bout. Penalties awarded in the
bout proper will therefore carry over into the Encho-Sen. There must be a decision after an
Encho-Sen, taking performance in the whole bout into consideration.

Where a team match has tied bout victories and points, an additional bout is then fought
between team selectees. The selectees must be nominated within one minute of the
announcement of this bout and the persons making the nomination will be those who signed
the original fighting order form for that match. If the extra bout ties, an Encho-Sen will be
fought and as in common with all Encho-Sens, a decision must be reached at its conclusion.

PROHIBITED BEHAVIOR

1. The following are forbidden:

a. Techniques which make contact with the throat.

b. Techniques which make excessive contact, having regard to the scoring area attacked.
All techniques must be controlled. Any technique, which impacts the head, face or neck
and results in visible injury, must be penalized, unless caused by the recipient.

c. Attacks to the groin, joints, or instep.

d. Attacks to the face with open hand techniques ("TEISHO" or "NUKITE").

e. Dangerous throws which by their nature preclude or prejudice the opponent's ability to
land with safety.

f. Techniques which by their nature, cannot be controlled for the safety of the opponent.

g. Direct attacks to arms or legs.

h. Repeated exits from the competition area (JOGAI), or movements, which waste too
much time. JOGAI relates to a situation where a contestant's body or part thereof touches
the floor outside of the competition area. An exception is when the contestant is actually
pushed or thrown from the competition area by his/her opponent.

i. Wrestling, pushing or seizing without an immediate technique.

j. MUBOBI relates to a situation where one or both contestants display a lack of regard
for his/her, or their own safety.

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k. Feigning of injury in order to gain advantage.

l. Any discourteous behavior from a member of an official delegation can earn the
disqualification of the offender or the entire team delegation from the tournament.

EXPLANATION:

Any contact to the throat must be penalized, unless it is the recipient’s own fault (Mubobi
etc.).

Techniques to the face may "touch" and still score, but touch does not mean a solid impact.
When assessing the contact force used, the Referee must take all the circumstances into
account. Did the victim exacerbate the impact of an otherwise controlled technique by an
injudicious movement? This is the reason most often given for scoring what would otherwise
appear to be excessive contact but it must not be used as a justification for a bad assessment.
The Referee must consider the effects of a marked disparity in size between contestants - as
can occur in a team match, or in open weight bout.

The Referee must constantly observe the injured contestant. The latter's behavior may help
the Referee in his/her assessment. A short delay in giving a judgment allows injury
symptoms such as a nosebleed to develop. Observation will also reveal any efforts by the
contestant to aggravate slight injury for tactical advantage. Examples of this are blowing
violently through an injured nose, or rubbing the face roughly with the back of a mitt. Pre-
existing injury can produce symptoms out of all proportion to the degree of contact used.

The trained Karate-Ka can absorb strong impact over muscled areas such as the abdomen,
but the breastbone and ribs are vulnerable to injury. For this reason, reasonable control over
body contact must be exercised.

The accidental kick in the groin can reduce the opponent's potential for winning as surely as
a deliberate one. Therefore the Referee should award a penalty in either case. Foot sweeps
that land high on the leg can cause knee injury. The Referee must assess the validity of any
sweep-attack to the leg; ineffectual but painful attacks of this sort should be immediately
penalized.

The face is defined as covering an area which begins one centimeter above the eyebrows,
extending down and including the temples, narrowing from the cheekbones and finishing just
under the chin.

The two open hand techniques referred to are merely examples of the class of prohibited
techniques.

Different Karate-Ka have different abilities at controlling techniques and for this reason,
there is no actual classification of "dangerous techniques". The contestant must perform all

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techniques with control and good form. If he/she cannot, then regardless of the technique
misused, a warning or penalty must be imposed.

The point at which "Yamei" is called is helpful in determining if Jogai has occurred. If Aka
delivers a successful technique and then exits immediately afterwards, "Yamei" should occur
at the instant of score and the exit therefore occurs outside of bout time and may not be
penalized. If Aka's attempt to score is unsuccessful, "Yamei" will not be called and the exit
will be recorded. If Shiro exits just after Aka scores with a successful attack, then "Yamei"
will occur immediately on the score and Shiro's exit will not be recorded. If Shiro exits, or
has exited as Aka's score is made (with Aka remaining within the area), then both Aka's score
will be awarded and Shiro’s Jogai penalty will be imposed.

Movements, which waste time, include pointless circling, where one or both contestants do
not engage in combat. It is expected that they will initially test each other but within a short
time, deliberate and effective attacks and counters should occur. If for any reason this does
not happen after a reasonable interval, the Referee must stop the bout and caution the
offender(s). The contestant who constantly retreats without effective counter, rather than
allow the opponent an opportunity to score must be penalized. This often occurs during the
closing seconds of a bout.

An example of Mubobi is the instance in which the contestant launches a committed attack
without regard for personal safety. Some contestants throw themselves into a long reverse-
punch, and are unable to block a counter. Such open attacks constitute an act of Mubobi and
cannot score. For the contestant's own safety, he/she must be warned at an early stage.

As a tactical theatrical move, some fighters turn away immediately in a mock display of
dominance to demonstrate a scored point. They drop their guard and lapse awareness of the
opponent. The purpose of the turn-away is to draw the Referee's attention to their technique.
This is a clear act of Mubobi. In order to score, Zanshin must be preserved.

Feigning of an injury, which does not exist, is a serious infraction of the rules. Exaggerating
an injury which does exist is less serious. Shikkaku can be imposed on the contestant
feigning injury i.e., when such things as collapse and rolling about on the floor are not
supported by evidence of commensurate injury as reported by a neutral doctor. A warning or
penalty can be imposed for exaggerating injury.

The Coach will be assigned a specific place by the Referee Council in conjunction with the
tournament organizing officials. This area will be close to the competition area and the
Coach allowed a free and uninterrupted access to contestants between bouts. To assist the
contestants, a visible scoreboard must be employed which can be clearly viewed by Coaches
and contestants.

PENALTIES

1. The following scale of penalties shall operate:

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ATENAI YONI: (Warning) May be imposed for attended minor infractions or for the first
instance of a minor infraction

KEIKOKU: This is a penalty in which WAZA-ARI is added to the opponent's score.

KEIKOKU is imposed for minor infractions for which a warning has previously been given
in that bout, or for infractions not sufficiently serious to merit HANSOKU-CHUI.

HANSOKU-CHUI: This is a penalty in which IPPON is added to the opponent's score.

HANSOKU-CHUI is usually imposed for infractions for which a KEIKOKU has previously
been given in that bout.

HANSOKU: This is imposed following a very serious infraction. It results in the opponent's
score being raised to SANBON. HANSOKU is also invoked when the number of
HANSOKU-CHUIS and KEIKOKUS imposed raise the opponent’s score to SANBON.

SHIKKAKU: This is a disqualification from the actual tournament, competition, or match.

The opponent's score is raised to SANBON. In order to define the limit of SHIKKAKU, the
Referee Council must be consulted. SHIKKAKU may be invoked. When a contestant
commits an act which harms the prestige and honor of Karate-do and when other actions are
considered to violate the rules of the tournament.

EXPLANATION:

A penalty can be directly imposed for a rules infraction but once given; repeats of that
particular infraction must be accompanied by an increase in severity of penalty imposed. It is
not, for example, possible to give a Keikoku for excessive contact then give a warning for a
second instance of excessive contact.

Penalties do not cross-accumulate. This is to say that a warning for the first instance of
Mubobi will not be followed by an automatic Keikoku for the first instance of Jogai. The
general penalties imposed are those of Keikoku, Hansoku-Chu, Hansoku and Shikkaku. The
infraction should be indicated by prefacing the Hansoku-Chui or Keikoku with an
explanation such as "Jogai (or Mubobi) Hansoku-Chui/Keikoku". When the penalties
incurred in any one bout through various infractions total Sanbon, then the offender will be
declared the loser and the winner announced as "Aka/Shiro no Kachi".

Warnings are given where there has clearly been a minor infraction of the rules, but the
contestant's potential for winning is not diminished (in the opinion of the Referee Panel) by
the opponent's foul.

A Keikoku may be imposed directly, without first giving a warning. Keikoku is normally
imposed where the contestant’s potential for winning is slightly diminished (in the opinion of
the Referee Panel) by the opponent’s foul.

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A Hansoku-Chui may be imposed directly, or following a warning or Keikoku and is used

where the contestant’s potential for winning has been seriously reduced by the opponent's
foul.

A Hansoku is imposed for cumulative penalties but can also be imposed directly for serious
rules infractions. It is used when, in the opinion of the Referee Panel for the bout, the
contestant's potential to win has been reduced virtually to zero by the opponent's foul.

A Shikkaku can be directly imposed, without warnings of any kind. The contestant need have
done nothing to merit it - it is sufficient if the Coach or non-combatant members of the
contestants' delegation behave in such a way as to harm the prestige and honor of Karate-Do.

If the Referee believe that a contestant has acted maliciously, regardless of whether or not
actual physical injury has been caused, Shikkaku and not Hansoku is the correct penalty.

A public announcement of Shikkaku must be made

Match Duration:

1. All matches will be three (3) minutes for men, two (2) minutes for women, in
duration. The clock is stopped during the award of a point or three points.

a) Time will be stopped when a competitor is injured.

b) Time will be stopped when the Chief Official, says “Yame.”

2. The time starts when the referee gives the signal to start.

3. If at the end of a match or in the event of a tie score competitors shall have a 30-
second rest period and then shall continue fighting for an indefinite time until the first
point is scored and that will denote the winner of the match.

Ring Courtesy:

1. All competitors are expected to exhibit appropriate courtesy to officials, fellow

competitors and spectators.

2. Competitors will bow into and out of the ring prior to and after competition.

3. Competitors will bow to ring official and fellow competitor at direction of ring
official prior to and after competition.

INJURIES

1. KIKEN or forfeiture is the decision given when a contestant or contestants are unable to
continue, abandon the bout, or are withdrawn on the order of the Referee. The grounds for
abandonment may include injury not ascribable to the opponent's actions.

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2. If two contestants injure each other at the same time or are suffering from the effects of
previously incurred injury and are declared by the tournament doctor to be unable to continue, the
bout is awarded to the contestant who has amassed the most points at that time. If the points score
is equal, then a decision (HANTEI) will decide the outcome of the bout.

3. An injured contestant who has been declared unfit to fight by the tournament doctor cannot fight
again in that competition.

4. An injured contestant who wins a bout through disqualification due to injury is not allowed to
fight again in the competition without permission from the doctor. If he/she is injured, he/she may
win a second bout by disqualification but is immediately withdrawn from further Kumite
competition in that tournament.

5. When a contestant is injured, the Referee shall at once halt the bout and call the doctor. The
doctor is authorized to diagnose and treat injury only.

6. Any competitor who falls, is thrown, or knocked down, and does not fully regain his or her feet
within ten seconds, is considered unfit to continue fighting and will be automatically withdrawn
from the tournament.

EXPLANATION:

Self inflicted injury and those injuries caused by the athlete are easy to deal with but when
assessing an injury caused by the opponent's technique, the Panel must consider whether the
technique was valid. Was it properly applied to the proper area at the correct time and with the
correct degree of control? Consideration of this will assist the Referee Panel in deciding whether
the injured contestant should be declared the loser by Kiken, or whether the opponent should be
penalized for a foul.

When the doctor declares the contestant unfit, the appropriate entry must be made on the
contestant’s monitoring card. The extent of unfitness must be made clear to other Refereeing
Panels.

A contestant may win through disqualification of the opponent for accumulated minor infractions.
Perhaps the winner has sustained no significant injury. A second win on the same grounds must
lead to the winner's withdrawal, though he/she may be physically able to continue.
The doctor is obliged to make safety recommendations only as they relate to the proper medical
management of that particular injured contestant.

When applying the "Ten Second Rule" the time will be kept by a timekeeper appointed for this
specific purpose. A warning bell will be sounded at seven seconds followed by the final bell at ten
seconds.

The Referee Panel will decide on KIKEN, HANSOKU or SHIKKAKU, as the case may be.

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In order that the credibility of the sport be maintained, competitors who feign injury will be subject
to the strongest penalties, up to, and including, suspension for life for repeated offenses.

Competitors, who receive SHIKKAKU for feigning injury, will be taken from the competition area
and put directly into the hands of the W.K.F. Medical Commission, who will carry out an
immediate examination of the competitor. The Medical Commission will submit its report before
the end of the Championship, for the consideration of the Referee Council.

Qualifications:

1. All competitors in Karate shall possess an identification card, certificate or diploma

authorized by a credentialed school or instructor.

2. All competitors, whether amateur or professional, will be allowed to compete.

DISPUTES:

Disputes will be handled by judges and Karate Coordinator. If the dispute cannot be resolved,
competitors may protest the disputed decision to WPFGF who will make the final decision.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION / INTERVENTION

The WPFGF may impose Disciplinary Action on any person or persons under the auspices of
the WPFG and may take immediate action known as Intervention, for violations of WPFG
Rules, for reasons of safety or security or for inappropriate or unprofessional conduct not in
the best interest of the WPFG.

Allegations of Misconduct/Incidents that do not require immediate Intervention will follow the
“APPEALS AND PROTESTS” section of the GENERAL RULE Book or may be independently
brought by the WPFGF.

THE TERMINOLOGY

SHOBU SANBON Start the Bout Referee stands on his/her line.

HAJIME
SHOBU HAJIME Start the extended Referee stands on his/her line.
bout
ATOSHI BARAKU A little more time An audible signal will be given by the
left. time keeper 30 seconds before the
actual end of the bout.
YAME Stop Interruption or end of the bout. The
Referee chops downwards with his/her
hand. The time-keeper stops the clock.
MOTO NO ICHI Original position Contestants, Referee and Judge return

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to their respective standing lines.

TSUZUKETE Fight on. Resumption of fighting ordered when
unauthorized interruptions occur.
TSUZUKETE Resume fighting - Referee standing upon his/her line,
HAJIME Begin! steps back into Zenkutsu - Dachi and
brings the palms of his/her hands
towards each
other.
SHUGO Judges called The Referee beckons with his/her arms
to the Judges.
HANTEI Judgment Referee calls for judgment by blowing
his/her whistle and the Judges render
their decision by flag signal.
HIKIWAKE Draw Referee crosses arms over chest, then
uncrosses and holds arms out from the
body with the palms showing upwards.
TORIMASEN Unacceptable as As Hikiwake, but culminating with the
scoring techniques palms facing downwards towards
body.
ENCHO-SEN Extension Referee reopens match with command
"Shobu Hajime!"
AIUCHI Simultaneous No point awarded to either contestant.
Scoring Technique Referee brings fists together in front of
the chest.
AKA (SHIRO) NO Red (White) wins The Referee obliquely raises his/her
KACHI arm on the side of the winner.
AKA (SHIRO) IPPON Red (White) Scores As above.
Ippon
AKA (SHIRO) Red (White) Scores The Referee extends downward 45
WAZA-ARI Waza-Ari Penalty. degrees with his/her arm on the side of
the scorer.
ATENAI YONI Warning without The Referee raises one hand in a fist
penalty. with the other hand covering it at chest
level and shows it to the offender.
KEIKOKU Warning with Waza- Referee points with his/her index
Ari penalty in Sanbon finger to the feet of the offender at an
Shobu. angle of 45 degrees.
HANSOKU-CHUI Warning with an The Referee points with his/her index
Ippon Penalty. finger to the abdomen of the offender
parallel to the floor.
HANSOKU Foul The Referee points with his/her index
finger to the face of the offender at a
45 degree angle and announces a
victory for the opponent.
JOGAI Exit from fighting The Referee points with his/her index
Area. finger at a 45 degree angle to the area

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boundary on the side of the offender.

JOGAI-KEIKOKU Second exit from Waza-Ari penalty is given to the
fighting area. opponent.
JOGAI HANSOKU Third exit from Referee uses two hand signals with
CHUI fighting area. announcement "Aka (or Shiro) Jogai
Hansoku Chui. He/she first points
with his/her index finger to the match
boundary on the side of the offender,
then to the offender's abdomen.
JOGAI-HANSOKU Fourth and final exit Fourth exit from the fighting area.
from the fighting Referee announces victory to the
area. opponent. Aka (Shiro) Nokachi.
SHIKKAKU Disqualification Referee uses two hand signals with the
announcement "Aka (Shiro) -
Shikkaku". He/she first points with
his/her index finger to the offender's
face then obliquely above and behind
him/her. The Referee will announce
with the appropriate gesture as
previously given "Shiro (Aka) No
Kachi!"
KIKEN Renunciation The Referee points with his/her index
finger towards the contestant.
MUBOBI Warning for lack of Referee points one index finger in the
regard for ones own air at a 60 degree angle on the side of
safety the offender.
MUBOBI-KEIKOKU Warning with Referee uses two hand signals with
Waza-Ari penalty. announcement Aka (or Shiro) -
Mubobi-Keikoku. He/she first points
with his/her index finger 60 degree
angle on the side of the offender, then
to the offender's feet.

KATAS (Forms)

Judging & Refereeing:

The panel of five (5) Judges for each match will be designated by the Chief Referee before the
match.

EXPLANATION:
Kata Judges sit on the corners and two sides of the performance area since this gives a better view.
The panel should, as far as availability permits, contain a cross-section of both nationalities and
styles.

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AUDIENCE
“X” = Judges (five)

AUDIENCE
X X
A J
U U
D X D
I G
E E
N S
X X
C
E
AUDIENCE

1. Kata competition takes the form of team and individual matches. Team matches consist of
competition between 3 person teams. Each team is exclusively male, or exclusively female. The
individual Kata match consists of individual performance in separate male and female divisions.

2. The contestants will be expected to perform both compulsory ("SHITEI") and free selection
("TOKUI") Katas during the competition in accordance to the schools of Karate-Do recognized by
the WKF based on Goju-Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Shoto-Kan and Wado-Ryu systems. No variations will be
permitted. A schedule of the compulsory Katas is given in Appendix 1.

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SCORING

1. The Kata competition is organized into three rounds. The first round selects sixteen contestants,
the second round selects eight contestants and the third round selects the winner and final placing.

2. Each Kata Judge displays the score by means of flags.

3. A match decision, by each individual judge is obligatory

EXPLANATION:

If there are less than sixteen entries to the first round, then that round can be omitted, such that the
competition becomes a two-round event.

The Chief Referee will decide what precise system will be used for each competition, after
consultation with the Organizing Committee.

CRITERIA FOR DECISION

1. In assessing the performance of a contestant or team, the following criteria must be adopted:

a. The Kata must be performed with competence and must demonstrate a clear understanding of the
principles it contains.

b. The Kata performance must have demonstrated correct focus of attention ("CHAKUGAN"), use
of power, good balance and proper breathing.

c. The performance should also be evaluated with a view to discerning other points.

2. A contestant is disqualified if he/she interrupts or varies the Kata, or he/she performs a Kata
different from that drawn or announced. If the performance is brought to a halt, or the Kata is
varied, the contestant(s) will be disqualified.

3. In team competition the competitors must perform their Kata with all three team members facing
in the same direction toward the Chief Judge in the performance area.

4. In the final of the Team Competition each team must perform bunkai of the kata.

EXPLANATION:

Judges consider the following:

Momentary hesitations in the smooth performance of the Kata, quickly remedied.

Momentary but discernible pauses and for a distinct halt, disqualification results.

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Momentary imbalance, with barely a wobble quickly remedied;

Actual instabilities where there is a distinct but recoverable loss of balance;
If the contestant loses balance completely and/or falls, a disqualification will result.

Other Criteria Include:

1. Correct breathing, good demonstration of power, speed, timing, balance and Kime.

2. Consistency and correctness of stances.

a. Correct weight distribution according to the Kihon being demonstrated.

b. Smooth and even transition (Hara remaining "weighted down") between stances.

c. Correct tension in stance.

d. Feet edges firmly on floor.

3. Techniques demonstrate:

a. Accuracy.

b. Correct and consistent Kihon with the style being demonstrated.

c. Correct tension, focus, Kime.

d. Show proper understanding of the Kata Bunkai.

4. Kata uniformly demonstrates:

1. Unwavering concentration.

2. Contrast in tension, breathing and movement.

3. An understanding of those techniques being demonstrated.

4. A realistic, rather than "theatrical" demonstration of the Katas meaning.

Team Kata:

All those ingredients inherent in the criteria for Individual Kata apply; see WKF Rules, as per
January 2012, with some additional requirements for the Team Kata.

The Kata nevertheless must not alter in rhythm or timing for the sake of synchronization. It must
demonstrate the correct dynamics of Kata as if performed by an individual.

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No external cues, (e.g. audible breathing) should be given during the Kata as an aid to
synchronization.

A mistake in synchronization of Team Kata requires the same numerical deductions as in a technical
mistake in individual Kata. This means for example, the movements must initiate in unison as well
as end in unison

OPERATION OF MATCHES

1. The two contestants will respond to the calling of their names by going directly to the
competition area. They will stand on a designated line and bow to the panel. They will announce
clearly the name of the Kata, which is to be performed and then start it. On completion of the Kata,
the contestants will return to the designated lines and await the decision of the panel.

2. The Chief Judge will call for a decision ("HANTEI") and blow a sharp blast on the whistle. The
Judges will, in unison, raise their red or blue flag such that they are clearly visible to the
scorekeeper.

3. The caller/announcer will announce the decision when registered; the Referee will blow a further
sharp blast on the whistle, whereupon the flags will be lowered.

4. In the first round, the contestant must perform a scheduled Kata. The choice must be announced
in advance so as to be included in the draw sheet for that round. In the second round a different
choice, similarly notified, must be made from the schedule. In the third round, the contestant may
perform any Kata not previously performed from the listed Katas by the four major styles of Karate
recognized by the WKF, Goju-Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Shoto-Kan and Wado-Ryu. The name of the free
Kata must be entered into the draw sheet prior to the commencement of the third round.

EXPLANATION:

The starting line for Kata is within the perimeter line of the performance area.

The Chief Judge must ensure that all Judges are ready before he/she calls for flags to be raised. The
Kata Judge must ensure that the flags displayed are readily visible to the Scorekeeper.

The Chief Judge must ensure that the Scorekeeper has recorded all the flag results before lowering
the flags.

The contestant must perform a different Kata in each round.

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OFFICIAL SCHEDULE OF W.K.F. SHITEI KATA

Bassai (Bassai Dai) Rohai (Meikyo)
Chinto (Gankaku) Saifa
Gojushiho Seienchin
Gojushiho-Dai Seipai
Gojushiho-Sho Seisan
Jion Seishan (Hangetsu)
Kosokun-Sho (Kanku Sho) Shiho Kosokun
Kururunfa Shisochin
Kushanku (Kosokun-Dai, Kanku Dai) Superimpei
Niseishi (Niju Shiho) Unshu (Unsu)
Nipaipo Wanshu (Enpi)

AWARDS FOR KUMITE & KATAS EXCLUDING HYUNGS (WEAPONS):

Medals are awarded First through Third Place (with dual bronze medals for 3rd place). A
maximum of 114 sets of Gold & Silver medals & 228 Bronze Medals will be required. WPFGF
will advise you of the number of sets needed based on total entries, plus a reasonable margin.

EXPLANATION:

There must be no advertisement hoarding, walls, pillars etc. within one meter of area's outer
perimeter. The mats used should be non-slip where they contact the floor proper but have a
low coefficient of friction on the upper surface. They should not be as thick as Judo mats,
since these impede Karate movement. The Referee must ensure that mat modules do not
move apart during the competition, since gaps cause injuries and constitute a hazard.

UNIFORMS

1a. Contestants must wear a white unmarked Karate Gi without stripes or piping. Only the
national emblem or flag of the country may be worn. This must be on the left breast of the
jacket and may not exceed an overall size of 10 sq.cm. Only the original manufacturer’s
labels may be displayed on the Gi and in the normally accepted locations (i.e. bottom right
corner of the Gi jacket and waist position on the trousers). In addition, an identifying number
issued by the Organizing Committee may be worn on the back. One must wear a red belt and
the other a blue belt. The blue and red belts must be around 5 centimeters wide and of a
length sufficient to allow 15 centimeters free on each side of the knot.

1b. Notwithstanding paragraph 1a.above, the Directing Committee may authorize the display
of special labels or trademarks, of approved sponsors.

2. The jacket, when tightened around the waist with the belt, must be of minimum length
that covers the hips, but no longer than mid thigh. In the case of women, a plain white T-
shirt may be worn beneath the Karate jacket.

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3. The maximum length of the jacket sleeves must be no longer then the bend of the wrist
and no shorter than halfway down the forearm. Jacket sleeves may not be rolled up.

4. The trousers must be long enough to cover at least two thirds of the shin and may not be
rolled up.

5. Each contestant must keep his hair clean and cut to a length that does not obstruct smooth
bout conduct.

Hachimaki (head band) will not be allowed. Should the Referee consider any contestant's
hair too long and/or unclean, he may, with the Referee Council's approval, disbar the
contestant from the bout. A discreet hair clip is permitted.

EQUIPMENT

Competitor's Equipment and Safety Requirements:

1. All competitors SHALL supply their own safety equipment, to include groin cup, mouth
piece, hand/foot gear and chest protector.

2. All women competitors shall provide a chest protector and mouth piece.

3. Additionally All Competitors shall supply two (2) sets of hand, leg and foot
protectors (1 blue & 1 red) which are mandatory.

Competition Equipment:
1. Total number of each item needed will depend on the number of rings used.

2. Equipment per ring:

a) A spray bottle containing seven (7) parts water and one (1) part household
bleach
(i.e. Clorox) will be kept at each mat. This mixture will be used to disinfect
the Kumite safety gear, floor or mat when-ever any bleeding occurs.
b) 1 stop watch
c) 1 rolled and taped towel
d) 1 red and 1 white flag or cloth per judge or referee
e) 1 red ribbon
f) 1 or 2 chairs for the timer and Bracket Coordinator
g) 2 clipboards

3. 1 1/2" masking tape for ring outline

4. 1 1/2" red and white tape for fighting lines inside ring
5. 1 weighing scale
6. 1 first-aid kit

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SCORING

1. Scoring will be mandatory for each judge and referee, using red and blue flags.

2. Judges should have two sets of flags, one red and one blue

GENERAL RULES for Hyungs Weapons (if conducted)

1. Area to perform should be larger than the dimensions that are used for fighting.

2. Each participant must be properly attired in a traditional uniform.

3. Competitors forgetting their forms during their performances will automatically be

disqualified.
4. In the event of a tie score the competitors will be asked to repeat their Kata. In the
event of a second tie they must perform another Kata.

AWARDS FOR HYUNGS (WEAPONS)

If conducted, additional medals will be required for the conduct of the Hyungs (Weapons)
competitions. Medals are awarded First to Third Place, Based on competitor numbers
WPFGF will advise the number of medals required, based on total entries, plus reasonable
margin, for this event.

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MEDALS:

Medals are awarded First through Third Place (with dual bronze medals for 3rd). A maximum of
66 Gold and Silver medals and 138 Bronze Medals will be required for the Karate Competition.

ATTENTION COORDINATORS

THE WPFG GENERAL RULES APPLY TO ALL SPORTS.

YOU MUST BE FAMILIAR WITH ITS CONTENTS.

PRECISE RESULTS MUST BE FORWARDED

TO THE HOST COMMITTEE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE
CONCLUSION OF THIS SPORT

The WPFGF Director assigned to your sport is

knowledgeable and experienced in providing assistance
during the preparation and running of the sport.
Questions, a detailed accounting of your preparations,
and any area requiring approval of the WPFGF
shall be submitted in a timely
manner to this WPFGF Director.

The WPFGF Directors want to work with you

to make your sport a success.

PLEASE USE THE WPFGF DIRECTORS AS A RESOURCE.

January 2020