For only two weeks ago we had the European Championship Shinkyokushinkai in Switzerland. In exactly 11 months, it is ready for the next EC, and then the trip will take us eastward, to be more specific Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan is bordered by Russia, Iran, Turkey, Georgia and Armenia, where the last two are also in EKO. Most of us saw the quality of the athletes now recently in the EC in Switzerland. And Azerbaijan won 2 third places in the senior Kumite, and any fighter who met them would be marked even if the won. Very strong and hard fighters, with the condition and spirit to back it up.We also put in mind that as a host country for the EC, the can enter more fighters than the standard number of fighters.

To hold a big tournament as a European Championship, is a big task. And maybe more difficult than normal, considering the European financial condition. But this have other sides to.Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia (and more) can now send more fighters to the tournament,because the travel cost will now be more reasonable. It is a long journey for these countries when they go to Spain, Belgium and Switzerland, so this factor can give us a very strong “home-team” taken the region in total. <– Allahverdi Rustamov 5th Dan

Regardless of obstacles, we know that it is hard work from Azerbaijan to make good tournament. And we have no doubt that it’s going to be good! But remember time goes fast, so about 11 months, 30 and 31 May is the time for EC 2014 in Azerbaijan!

See Picture source here! By Gabil Sayadov