PREPARATIONS shift to high gear for the upcoming 80th Araw ng Dabaw Karatedo invitational tournament, according to Philippine Karatedo Federation (PKF) regional director Bern Rexander Tacay.

Tacay, in a Facebook chat with Sun.Star Davao, said the date is already set on March 18 and 19 at the NCCC Mall entertainment area.

The regional director, however, said he already submitted the proposal to the Sports Development Division-City Mayor's Office (SDD-CMO) Friday, January 27.

Tacay expects some 100 karatekas from differents schools and clubs, adding that PSKAI Davao will try to defend its title in the annual event.

Categories entered are kata advance, intermediate and novice as well as kumite advance, intermediate and novice seniors and children division.