Event & Article Details
This event was formerly known as Ocean Nationals.
Introduction
The Hurricane Nationals, previously recognized as the Ocean Nationals, is a premier event that was held on September 20th, 2025.
This year’s Hurricane Nationals was organized by Wayne Nguyen, the founder of the TKO (Texas Karate Organization), marking a new chapter for the event previously produced by Ishmael Robles. Hosted at the stunning Galveston San Luis Convention Center, the tournament drew a large and enthusiastic crowd eager to participate in a variety of martial arts competitions. Attendees enjoyed events ranging from traditional karate and point sparring to breaking bricks and boards, kickboxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, grappling, continuous sparring, and stick fighting, making the Hurricane Nationals a true showcase of martial arts excellence and diversity.
History and Evolution
Originally established as the Ocean Nationals, the event gained a reputation for showcasing some of the most talented competitors in Sport karate and other martial arts disciplines.
The Texas Karate Organization (TKO) has had a rich legacy of producing sport karate events for over 30 years, with Wayne Nguyen at the helm orchestrating some of the most acclaimed martial arts gatherings in both Houston and the broader Texas region. Wayne Nguyen’s reputation is further enhanced by his personal achievements as a multiple world champion, having competed in major organizations such as NASKA, The National Black Belt League, and earning numerous world titles across various renowned associations.
Many may be surprised to learn that Wayne Nguyen appeared in the movie Sidekicks as the White Ninja as a memorable dream sequence character. In the film, a young man befriends a restaurant owner who secretly is a martial arts expert and helps train the main character youth for a tournament in Houston. During the movie’s plot, the protagonist fantasizes about being the White Ninja, using nun-chucks to triumph over opponents. Set in downtown Houston and its surroundings, the film showcased many well-known martial artists as character actors, adding to its authenticity and connection to the real martial arts community.
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The Event
This year’s Hurricane Nationals was a vibrant gathering that brought together martial artists from across the country to compete and celebrate their skills. Taking place at the Galveston San Luis Convention Center, the tournament featured a packed schedule of competitions, demonstrations, and camaraderie. Participants and spectators alike were treated to an exciting atmosphere, with events running smoothly under the expert guidance of Wayne Nguyen and the Texas Karate Organization.
The variety of martial arts disciplines represented was impressive, offering something for every enthusiast. Traditional forms and point sparring were complemented by high-energy kickboxing matches, intense grappling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu bouts, and visually stunning breaking contests. The inclusion of continuous sparring and stick fighting further emphasized the tournament’s commitment to showcasing the full spectrum of martial arts excellence. Whether attending to compete or cheer from the sidelines, everyone present experienced a memorable celebration of skill, sportsmanship, and martial arts culture.
The venue was again at San Luis Convention Center, conveniently located adjacent to the Galveston seawall and beach, which served as a main attraction for participants and guests alike. Galveston itself is a vibrant city teeming with activities, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy scenic ocean views, local cuisine, and a lively atmosphere beyond the tournament events. The combination of a world-class venue and the energetic backdrop of Galveston contributed to an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Rommel Gargoles, serving as the team captain of Team USA, led many of the Team USA athletes who were competing at the Hurricane Nationals as part of their preparation for the upcoming World Games, which this year will be held in Oslo, Norway. The event featured numerous top members of Team USA, who showcased their martial arts prowess and excellence across a variety of divisions. As expected, the level of competition was exceptional, with dynamic performances not only from Team USA but also from Team Focus, Team Gypsy and several other martial arts teams from across Texas, all striving to claim victory in their respective events.
Wayne Nguyen and the Texas Karate Organization were responsible for a smooth running tournament and offered an exciting experience for all involved.
Results
There were 6 Kata, also called forms grand championships and 2 adult sparring grand championships for a total of 8 grand championships.
The winners are listed below.
- Beginner junior forms Grand Champion – Kieth Valdez with 11 total competitors
- Intermediate junior forms Grand Champion – Zachary Phillips with 11 total competitors.
- Advanced junior forms Grand Champion – Lilly McConnell with13 competitors
- Adult Under black Belt forms Grand Champion – Jennifer Clayton with 2 competitors
- Junior black belt forms Grand Champion – Demi Rodriguez with 6 total competitors
- Adult black belt forms champion – Christina Subonj with 6 total competitors
- Adult women’s black belt sparring champion – Christine Subonj
- Adult men’s black belt sparring Grand champion – DeShaw Moten
The whole event finished with many who came having challenged themselves and reaped the rewards derived from a true test of their skill in this contest of champions and should be proud of their accomplishments no matter how they placed.
