Team Canada has wrapped up its campaign at the 2026 WKF World Cadet, Junior & U21 Championships, held October 14 to 18 in Bielsko-Biała, Poland. A total of 35 Canadian athletes competed across Cadet, Junior and U21 divisions in both Kata and Kumite at the 14th edition of the championships, one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar for developing karate athletes.

Leading the way for Canada was Mariana Guerrero, who battled through the Junior Female +66 kg Kumite draw to reach the bronze medal match. In a hard-fought final bout, Guerrero finished fifth in the world, the top Canadian result of the championships.

Manic Noel delivered a strong showing in U21 Male Kata, finishing seventh, while Genesis Reid placed ninth in Cadet Female -47 kg Kumite against a deep international field.

Canada’s presence in Bielsko-Biała extended well beyond the tatami. At the WKF Congress held alongside the championships, Karate Canada President Craig Vokey was re-elected to the World Karate Federation Executive Committee, ensuring Canada continues to have a strong voice in shaping the future of the sport internationally.

Canadian referees were also a key part of the event, officiating throughout the week and representing Canada with professionalism and integrity on the world stage. Samir Baccouche and Djibril Ba officiated as Referee A, Maryam Kermani as Referee B, and Maria Jose Salmeron as Referee B and Kata Judge A. Congratulations to Trevor Walmsley, who received his 10-year pin. Thank you to all of our officials for their commitment to the sport.

Karate Canada extends a heartfelt thank you to the coaches and support team who travelled with Team Canada to Poland. Coaches Marianne Boule, Mitch German, Rock Guindon, Pam Ross, Randy Rix and Toshi Uchiage guided our athletes through every round, while Sport Technical Leader Rodney Hobson, Team Manager Rooz Movaffagh and Therapist Clare Richard worked behind the scenes to keep the team prepared, healthy and focused throughout the week. Their dedication, long hours and unwavering support were essential to every performance on the mat.

Full results are available on the WKF website, and highlights from the week can be found on Karate Canada’s social media channels (@KarateCanada).