The 21st Annual South Alabama Karate Open was a success as hundreds of athletes and fans piled into the Straughn High School gym on Saturday for the event.

Competitors from all across the Southeast United States were on hand to take part in the event.

“The 21st Annual South Alabama Karate Open is in the books and did not disappoint,” Mark Rudd said. “This was one of our best ever competitions with 21 dojo competing. There was a lot of talent displayed, great competitiveness and sportsmanship. This year’s SAKO had students from a six state area.”

There were four Grand Champions awarded on Saturday.

Cotton Sherrer of Enterprise won the Youth Black Belt Kata and Weapons Grand Championship.

Cody Davis of Opp won the Adult Black Belt Kata and Weapons Grand Championship.

Camille Holley of Andalusia won the Women’s Black Belt Kumite Grand Championship.

Allen Butler won the Men’s Black Belt Kumite Grand Championship.

The rest of the local results will be available in the Wednesday edition of the Star-News.