Silverado Cup | Rules & Division

Iaido Competition Rules

Uniform and Equipment

• Uniform: Competitors must wear a traditional iaido uniform (keikogi and hakama).

• Weapon:

  • Iaito (unsharpened practice sword) for most competitors.

  • Weapon must be in good condition and safe for use.

Kata Performance

• Competitors perform standardized iaido kata (e.g., Zen Ken Ren Iaido forms or Seitei Iaido).

• Performances are judged on the following criteria:

  • Precision: Accuracy of cuts, draws, and sheathing.
  • Fluidity: Smoothness and control of movements.
  • Focus: Mental presence and concentration.
  • Posture: Proper stance and body alignment.
  • Spirit: Demonstration of intent and energy (zanshin).

Judging

• A panel of judges evaluates each performance based on the criteria above.

• Scores are typically given on a scale (e.g., 1-10) or through a ranking system (e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd place).

Tie-Breakers

• In the event of a tie, competitors may perform the same kata again or a different kata, depending on division rules.

Safety

• Competitors must handle their swords responsibly at all times.

• Reckless behavior or unsafe weapon handling will result in disqualification.

Common Iaido Competition Etiquette

• Bowing: Competitors must bow upon entering and leaving the competition area, as well as to the judges and opponents.

• Respect: Competitors must show respect to judges, fellow competitors, and the audience at all times.

• Cleanliness: The competition area must be kept clean and free of debris.

WKF Kumite Competition Rules 

WKF Karate sparring, also known as Kumite, is the competitive fighting format used in tournaments sanctioned by the World Karate Federation (WKF). It follows specific rules that emphasize speed, technique, and control, rather than full-contact striking.

Uniform and Equipment

• Competitors may wear a clean white karate gi, though it is not required. Alternative martial arts attire is acceptable as long as it is respectful and adheres to event regulations.
• Approved protective gear is mandatory, including gloves, foot protectors, mouthguards, and headgear.
• Male competitors must wear groin protectors.

Scoring

To earn points, techniques must demonstrate good form, power, and control:

• 1 Point (Yuko): Punch to the body or mid-level kicks.
• 2 Points (Waza-ari): Kick to the body.
• 3 Points (Ippon): Kick to the head or a takedown followed by a scoring technique.

Prohibited Actions

• Excessive contact or strikes to prohibited areas (e.g., throat, joints).
• Unsportsmanlike behavior, which may result in penalties or disqualification.

Match Duration

• Matches typically last 2 to 3 minutes, depending on the age and rank division.
• In the case of a tie, a 1-minute extension may be applied.

Penalties

• Category 1 (Minor): Warnings (e.g., stepping out of bounds, excessive stalling).
• Category 2 (Major): Point deductions (e.g., excessive contact, dangerous techniques).
• Category 3 (Severe): Disqualification (e.g., intentional injury, disrespectful behavior).

Download Full Rules

For a complete and detailed breakdown of Kumite rules, download the official USA Karate Rules document here:

Download USA Karate Rules PDF.

Tag Sparring Division

Age Groups: 5-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-13 years 

Description:
Tag Sparring is a fun and safe introduction to movement, timing, and distancing in sparring. Instead of traditional kumite, competitors attempt to "tag" specific target areas on their opponent using controlled hand or foot touches. This helps develop footwork, reflexes, and strategic thinking without full-contact techniques.

Rules:

• Competitors aim to lightly tap their opponent’s shoulders, knees, or belt area to score points.
• No excessive force or direct strikes to the face or torso.
• Light contact only—no pushing or grabbing.
• Matches are 60 to 90 seconds long.
• Points are awarded based on successful tags with proper technique and control.
• The competitor with the most tags at the end of the match wins.

Kobudo Competition Rules

1. Uniform and Equipment

• Competitors may wear a clean, white karate gi, though it is not mandatory. Appropriate martial arts attire is acceptable, provided it is respectful and complies with event regulations.

• Weapons: Only traditional Okinawan weapons are permitted, including: 

  • Bo Staff
  • Sai
  • Tonfa
  • Nunchaku
  • Kama

• Weapons must be safe and in good condition (no sharp edges or broken parts). Foam or rubber weapons are not allowed.

2. Kata Performance

• Competitors must perform traditional kobudo kata.

• The kata should be executed as a single, continuous sequence without pauses or restarts.

3. Judging Criteria

Performances are evaluated based on the following:

• Technical Performance (70%):

  • Accuracy of techniques, stances, and transitions.

  • Proper handling and control of the weapon.

• Athletic Performance (20%):

  • Power, speed, balance, and rhythm.

  • Control and stability throughout the kata.

• Spirit and Presentation (10%):

  • Focus, intensity, and overall impression.

  • Demonstration of confidence and intent (kime).

4. Scoring

• Judges score performances on a scale (e.g., 5.0 to 10.0).

• The highest and lowest scores are typically dropped, and the remaining scores are averaged.

• In the event of a tie, competitors may perform the same kata again or a different kata, depending on division rules.

5. Prohibited Actions

• Performing an incorrect or unrecognized kata.

• Pausing, restarting, or stopping during the performance (unless due to external factors).

• Using non-traditional or unsafe weapons.

• Exceeding the time limit (if applicable).

6. Time Limit

• Performances typically have a time limit of 3-5 minutes, depending on the division.

• Exceeding the time limit may result in point deductions or disqualification.

7. Code of Conduct

• Competitors must bow upon entering and leaving the competition area, as well as to the judges.

• Respectful behavior toward judges, fellow competitors, and the audience is required.

• Unsportsmanlike conduct (e.g., arguing with judges, disrespect) will result in penalties or disqualification.

Let’s honor the tradition of Kobudo with skill, precision, and respect!