Karate Pioneer Francesco Favaron Dies at 79

PADOVA – The world of karate mourns the loss of Francesco Favaron, a key founder of Proceed Ju Kai Veneta, who passed away at the age of 79. Favaron also served on the staff of the Italian national team.

The Founding of Go Ju Kai Veneta

Favaron’s journey began in 1968 alongside friends Giorgio Lupatin, Claudio De Paulis, Paolo Dalla Dea, and Pierpaolo Malagoli. The group sought to introduce Japanese karate to the Veneto region of Italy. After considering various styles, they chose Goju-ryu under the guidance of maestro Alberto Evangelista.

Between 1973 and 1974, the five friends established gyms in five different towns in the Padua area, uniting them under the name “U.S. Goju-Kai.” They later transitioned to the current of maestro Yamaguchi (I.K.G.A.), moving away from the teachings of Yamamoto (I.K.O.).

The initial gyms were located in:

• ROVIGO: “Nintai Goju-Kai Veneta” – maestro Francesco Favaron
• PADOVA: “A.S.D. Fresh Athletic” – maestri Francesco Favaron and Dalla Dea Paolo
• PADOVA: “A.S.D. Kobudo Goju-Kai Padova” – maestro Giorgio Lupatin
• MONSELICE: “Body Work Club” – maestro Claudio De Paulis
• PIOVE DI SACCO: “A.S.D. Goju-Kai Piove di Sacco” – maestro Pierpaolo Malagoli

Over the years, additional gyms joined the group, expanding to include locations in Abano Terme, Adria, Anguillara Veneta, Este, Lusia, Montegrotto Terme, and more within Padua, Pegolotte, and Solesino.

A Legacy of Principles and Dedication

In 1992, the group officially became “A.S. Goju-Kai Veneta” and received official recognition from the I.K.G.A. (International Karate-do Goju-kai Association) under maestro Goshi Yamaguchi during the 7th I.K.G.A. Seminar in Greece.

“The ultimate goal of karate is not victory or defeat but the improvement of the character of its participants.”

Favaron dedicated his time to gyms in Padua and Rovigo, where he mentored talents like Luca Brancaleon, who went on to compete for the Italian national team and the Army sports team. He taught for many years at the New Athletic gym in Arcella.

Final Years and Recognition

Favaron’s wife, Claudia, shared that he continued teaching until 2021, when balance issues related to Parkinson’s disease forced his retirement. Just last week, he was awarded the eighth dan at a national level for his merit, and commitment.

Francesco Favaron passed away yesterday morning at the Oic della Mandria, leaving behind his wife and daughter, Erika.