International Martial Arts Tournament to showcase Top Athletes

The 42nd annual Quebec Open, a premier martial arts championship in canada, is poised to host over 1,500 athletes from around the globe. From April 24th to 26th, the PEPS at Laval University will transform into a battleground of skill and technique, solidifying QuebecS position as a hub for martial arts excellence.

Unprecedented Interest Leads to Expanded Accommodations

Organizers have expressed their excitement over the overwhelming number of registrations. The surge in participants from countries including canada,the United States,italy,Greece,Bulgaria,Hungary,India,France,Iran,Guatemala,Venezuela,and Mexico has necessitated an increase in hotel room bookings to accommodate all attendees. This surge reflects the growing international appeal of the Quebec Open.

Expert-led Seminars to Enhance Skills

Prior to the competitions, on Thursday, martial arts enthusiasts of all levels will have the possibility to participate in seminars led by world-renowned athletes. These sessions are designed to provide valuable insights and training techniques, enriching the experience for both tournament participants and general martial arts practitioners. These seminars offer a unique learning habitat,fostering growth and development within the martial arts community.

NASKA Sanctioned tournament Attracts prestigious Teams

As a unique NASKA (North American Sport Karate Association) 5A sanctioned tournament in Quebec, the Quebec Open will feature prominent teams such as Free Style of California, John Paul Mitchell, Str8up, Infinity, Diamond G3, Amerikick, and Kraly. This sanctioning underscores the high level of competition and the tournament’s importance within the martial arts circuit.

Pomsae Competition Adds Korean Flair

Adding to the diverse range of events, Friday will feature Pomsae competitions for the second consecutive year. Pomsae, a series of defined movements that demonstrate combat techniques, offers a unique display of precision and artistry. Two competitors concurrently perform these forms on the tatami, showcasing their mastery of Korean martial arts.

local Athletes to watch

The Quebec Open will also highlight local talent, including:

• Sandrine Audy: The 16-year-old recently triumphed at the Wako World Circuit and demonstrated remarkable performance at the NASKA tournament in rhode Island.
• Malik Gagnon: Following in his father’s footsteps, the 10-year-old prodigy secured second place at the world championship in Hungary in 2024 and claimed first place at the NASKA tournament in Rhode Island. He has recently been recruited by the Str8up team (US).
• Rose Rhéaume: from Donnacona,has been steadily climbing the ranks since the age of 8. now 24, she consistently achieves top placements in competitions.
• Edouard Tardif: The 21-year-old from St-Jean-Chrysostome is increasingly securing podium finishes, marking his promising trajectory in the sport.

Quebec Representative on the world Stage

As 2023, Claire Cocozza, co-promoter of the event, has served on the WAKO official committee at the international level. Her expertise has led to officiating roles in Italy, Greece, Hungary, Bulgaria, the United States, and England in 2024. Additionally, she conducted seminars in China and Thailand as part of the world-level training team and was recognized as the best female referee at the world championship in Budapest. Cocozza’s recent selection to officiate at the World Games in china this August and her return from refereeing the World Cup in Thailand further highlight her notable contributions to the sport.

WAKO Partnership and Olympic aspirations

The partnership with WAKO (World Association for Kickboxing Organizations) since 2017 has been instrumental in providing local athletes with opportunities to qualify for world championships. WAKO continues it’s efforts to have one of its sports included in the Los Angeles 2032 Olympics, with ongoing progress in this endeavor. The Quebec Open holds a Class C ranking on the WAKO International Circuit, signifying its importance in the global martial arts landscape.

Saturday Evening Show: A Spectacle of Skill and Strength

The Saturday evening show at the Quebec Open is a highlight of the tournament, drawing athletes, fans, and the general public alike. This year’s show promises impressive performances, featuring winners from the day’s competitions and renowned teams. A key attraction will be Marc-Anthony Montpetit’s attempt to break an IBF (International Breaking federation) world record for breaking bricks. The evening will also include several surprise performances, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.

Live Webcast Details

The black belt division competitions and the Saturday evening show will be broadcast live on Uventex TV and Pointfighter Live, allowing fans worldwide to witness the action. Tickets for competitions and the show are available for purchase at United Studios locations in Quebec and at the door during the events, starting at $25 plus tax per person.

Economic Impact and Community Support

The Quebec Open generates over $4 million in economic benefits for the Quebec region. The event relies on the dedication of nearly 225 volunteers, half of whom serve as referees. A 2018 survey revealed that 99% of visitors were in Quebec specifically for the Quebec Open, with 30% from Quebec, 14% from Canada, and 11% from the United States. The tournament is supported by key partners including destination Québec Cité, the City of Quebec and the Bureau of major events, the Government of Quebec, the secretariat for the Capital-Nationale, and the Ministry of tourism. The tournament promoters are David Bossinotte, Claire Cocozza, Samuel Gagnon, and Keila Mejia.