Samukawa boy Hayate Kusazawa finishes runner-up in All-Japan youth karate

The All-Japan Youth Karate Championship (boys lightweight) was held July 19 at the National Yoyogi Gymnasium as part of the Karate Dream Festival 2026 international tournament. Hayate Kusazawa, who lives in Samukawa Town and represents Shinkyokushin Karate West Kanagawa, reached the final and finished as runner-up. The result was highlighted by his local dojo and community for his strong performance at a national-level event.