“What a great event for Spokane,” says Eric Sawyer, Spokane Sports President and CEO. “Hosting the USA Karate National Championships illustrates the versatility of the new building and proves its multi-purpose capabilities. The sport of karate is unique and exciting, and will be a great event for The Podium.”

This event will bring 2,000 of the nation’s top Karate athletes to Spokane for the four-day championships. Along with the athletes, 2,500 spectators are expected and 3,000 overnight hotels stays will be generated by this event. More than $4 million dollars will be generated in Spokane by visitor spending during the competition.

The USA Karate National Championships have never been held in Spokane, however the Lilac City has developed a great reputation for hosting high-level martial arts championships and Spokane is ready to roll out the red carpet for USA Karate. 

“We are very excited to bring the National Championships and Team Trials to Spokane. We have heard so many great things from other National Governing Bodies who have held events in Spokane and we look forward to our members experiencing all the city has to offer.” said Phil Hampel, USA Karate CEO.

Two notable past martial arts events include the 2018 USA Judo Junior Olympic National And International Championships and the 2018 Pan American Taekwondo Championships.

COVID-19 caused the cancellation of the 2020 USA Karate National Championships and Team Trials, scheduled for Spokane last July. The 2022 National Championships will select the Junior National Team for the Junior Pan American Championships and Junior World Championships. This championship will also select the pool of athletes for the Senior National team trials.

Karate is making its Olympic debut this summer in Tokyo. Eighty karate athletes will compete from around the world, including three American athletes.