Hua Hin karate kids win big at national tournament in Bangkok
Two young martial artists from Hua Hin have secured podium finishes at one of Thailand’s largest national karate competitions, marking a notable achievement for a small local club competing on the national stage for the first time.
Awa Cook, aged 9, and Hin Palmer, aged 10, both won medals at the All Thailand Karate Championships 2026, held at Kasetsart University from 4 to 6 April. Awa claimed a silver medal in her age group, while Hin secured gold, competing against some of the country’s top young athletes.
The event brought together almost 700 competitors from across Thailand, with multiple competition areas in operation throughout the weekend. For Wado Karate Federation, Hua Hin (W.K.F. Hua Hin), which entered a team into the national championships for the first time, the results were seen as a significant milestone.
The club sent a team of seven young athletes to Bangkok, making it one of the smallest contingents in the competition. Despite this, both Awa and Hin reached the podium, while the remaining team members also gained valuable experience competing at national level.
Speaking after the event, Hin described a strong sense of achievement following his victory. “I was feeling proud and pleased because I’ve just won the Thai National, I’ll be part of history,” he said. He also highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament, adding: “It was quite difficult when I was coming up, and I had to adapt really quickly and learn from my opponent.”
Sensei John Oliver, founder of W.K.F. Hua Hin, said the results exceeded expectations given the scale and standard of the tournament.
He described the championships as featuring some of the best young karate practitioners in Thailand and said the experience would help build confidence and motivation within the team.
Awa, who has been training for around three years, said she felt “good” after winning her medal and highlighted kumite, or sparring, as her favourite part of the sport.
She admitted to feeling slightly nervous before competing but said she enjoyed the experience overall.
Both athletes train several times a week in Hua Hin, with structured sessions focusing on technique, discipline and physical conditioning. According to John, consistent training has been key to their development and success.
W.K.F. Hua Hin, which has been teaching traditional Wado-Ryu karate in the town since 2012, offers classes for children and adults across a range of skill levels. The club traces its roots back to Sensei John’s home club in Bristol, established in 1990, which has direct lineage to Wado-Ryu’s founder, Grand Master Hironori Ōtsuka. He has continued to expand the club’s activities over the years, including training in five other martial arts disciplines.
Looking ahead, John said he hopes the recent success will encourage more young people in Hua Hin to take up martial arts. He emphasised that the benefits go beyond competition, helping children develop discipline, respect and physical fitness.
“I would love to see more children involved in martial arts,” he said. “It’s a great way to live your life. It’s not just about punching and kicking; it teaches discipline and respect, and helps keep them fit and strong.”
He added that the club welcomes newcomers and encourages interested families to get in touch. “Please get in touch and feel free to come for a free trial,” he said. “Just drop us a message on Facebook or give us a call. We have different age groups at different times, and everyone is welcome to come and try.”
The first ‘regular’ lesson is free, with no obligation or pressure to continue.
The club is now considering participation in future events, including the Thailand Open, which attracts international competitors, as it looks to build on its first appearance at national level.
For more information, visit facebook.com/wadokaratehuahin
