When Knox Kyokushin Karate’s dedicated instructor, Keelan Lang found out he’d been selected to represent Australia at the 6th World Kyokushin Karate Tournament in Maebashi, Japan this November, his first reaction was one of disbelief.
“I honestly couldn’t believe it at first,” Mr Lang said.
“Then it hit me, I’m going to Japan. And I’m going to be up against some of the best fighters in the world. It was a mix of excitement and nerves, but mostly just pure stoke for the opportunity to compete on a global stage.”
Mr Lang’s journey to this international stage has been far from easy, and it’s taken dedication, discipline, and a deep passion for Kyokushin and alongside the intense physical training, the sport has taught him invaluable life lessons both inside and outside the dojo.
“Through Kyokushin, I’ve learned that every day is different,” Mr Lang said.
“There are ups and downs, and sometimes setbacks like injuries or personal challenges. But making the decision to improve, even in small ways every day, has a compounding effect not just in training, but in life.”
The phrase “If it is to be, it’s up to me” has been a guiding principle for Mr Lang throughout his career.
He learned it from his first instructor, Shihan Penita Davies, and it resonates with his approach to training and life.
“It’s about holding yourself accountable for your actions, whether it’s training, working, or even taking time to rest – everything is a choice. It’s up to me to show up and put in the work,” Mr Lang said.
As he prepares for the challenge of competing on the world stage, Mr Lang draws strength from the support of his community, which he calls his “whanau” (family).
Whether it’s his own family, his partner, friends, or the wider Kyokushin Australia community, their encouragement has been key in keeping him motivated on the toughest days.
“When I’m not feeling 110 per cent motivated, it’s the people around me that help me get back on track,” he said.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the ones who are there in the sweat with me.”
Mr Lang also expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from his community as he prepares for the tournament.
Knox Kyokushin Karate has set up a fundraising campaign to help cover the costs of the trip to Japan.
Mr Lang said that donations, product contributions for a silent auction, and even support through attending classes or lending a hand at community events all make a difference.
“We’re all in this together, and the support has been humbling, whether it’s a donation or simply showing up, it all counts,” he said.
The 6th World Tournament will be held in Maebashi from 26 November, where Mr Lang will spend the first week competing, followed by a week of experiencing Japan’s culture and sights.
While he is the only Melbourne representative at this stage, he is looking forward to the experience of sparring against fighters from around the world and bringing that knowledge back to his students.
“I’m excited to test my skills against the world’s best and see how fighters from other countries approach kumite (sparring),” he said.
“It’s invaluable for me as a competitor and for what I can pass on to my students.”
Mr Lang’s trip is not just a personal milestone but an opportunity to represent Australia and Knox Kyokushin Karate on the global stage.
As he heads to Japan, he is grateful for every bit of support he’s received and looks forward to sharing this journey with his community.
“It’s surreal, but it means the world,” he said.
“I’m so thankful to everyone who’s supported me along the way.”
For those wishing to support Keelan Lang’s journey, donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign: Help Australia Compete at Kyokushin Karate Worlds in Japan.
