Spokane to Host 2022 USA Karate National Championships

The 2022 USA Karate National Championships are going to be held in Spokane, Washington, at the destination’s new facility The Podium next summer.

Spokane Sports said it anticipates an estimated economic impact of $4 million from the event with 2,000 athletes and 2,500 spectators coming for the event, scheduled for June 30—July 3. Karate is making its Olympics debut in Tokyo this summer.

“What a great event for Spokane,” said Eric Sawyer, Spokane Sports president and chief executive officer. “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.”

The event was supposed to be held in Spokane in 2020 before it was cancelled because of the pandemic. The event is the qualifier for the Junior National Team for the Junior Pan American Championships and Junior World Championships as well as the pool of athletes for the Senior National team trials.

Spokane has hosted the 2018 USA Judo Junior Olympic National and International Championships as well as the 2018 Pan American Taekwondo Championships.

“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 chief executive officer.