Ten-year-old Jon Harwood is a four-year Chinese kungfu learner. He said he has become more courageous since practicing martial arts and would love to continue with it.

Martial arts, an important part of Chinese culture, have reflected many spirits in Chinese philosophy, Henry C. Lee, a world-renowned forensic scientist and martial arts lover, said at the opening ceremony of the event.

It was also a good way to keep fit by practicing kungfu, he said.

"I think it's important to promote martial arts across the world, as it is the treasure of Chinese culture and a treasure of the world as well," Malee Khow, organizer of the event, told Xinhua.

Launched in 1999, the competition has taken place annually since 2016. By far, about 2,500 martial arts enthusiasts from the United States have participated in the championships.