Sport
3 July, 2026
City to host Border Challenge
WARRNAMBOOL is set to welcome hundreds of martial artists this weekend when the city hosts the 2026 Knights Refrigeration Open Border Challenge.
The challenge is expected to attract a large number of competitors from across Australia for one of regional Victoria’s premier martial arts tournaments.
To be held at the St Pius School hall tomorrow (Saturday) from 10am, the tournament will showcase competitors of all ages and experience levels on both contact and non-contact divisions.
This year’s event will feature 150 competitors in the non-contact division and 50 in the full-contact division.
In what is anticipated will be the match-up of the day, Sempai Lily shields (1st Dan) will take on Sempai Breanna Price (1st Dan) who both participated in the International Karate Organisation Kyokushinkaikan World Cup in Japan last year.
Sempai Shields brought home a silver from Japan and is once again expected to perform strongly.
More than 50 black belts will compete tomorrow, adding to the high standard of martial arts on display throughout the day.
Spectators will also be treated to board-breaking demonstrations by black belts and senior students, highlighting the skill, precision, discipline and power developed through years of training.
Tournament organisers said the Open Border Challenge continues to grow each year while maintaining a strong focus on sportsmanship, respect, personal development and community involvement.
“The Open Border Challenge is much more than a competition,” members of the organising committee said.
“It’s an opportunity for martial artists from across the country to challenge themselves, learn from one another and build lasting friendships.
“It also showcases Warrnambool as a fantastic destination for major sporting events.”
Action will take place throughout the day across multiple competition rings.
