JAKARTA, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) -- The first edition of the Bali International Kung Fu Championship kicked off in Indonesia's island province of Bali on Tuesday.

A total of 735 athletes from China, Ukraine, Norway and hosts Indonesia are competing in the tournament, which plays host to 424 categories based on the number of games and ages of the athletes.

Airlangga Hartarto, chairman of the Indonesian Wushu Association, said that the athletes would seek to do their best, especially younger competitors from local clubs.

"Certainly, we encourage the young athletes to strive for better achievement, accordingly we give more attention," said Airlangga.

The tournament lasts until December 22.