Karate- A first place finish and an orange belt- Nov '07

In early November Thomas and his friend Jack Giura attended thier first Karate Tournament.

Thomas really wanted to do well at his first karate tournament. So, prior to the event, he paid attention in class and practiced with Dad as much as he could. We even went to another Tournament to learn what we could before hand- Thanks to Sensei Barry Schimmel for his encouragement!

We looked a the trophies before the event and Thomas told me he REALLY wanted one.

To earn the first place trophy, Thomas had to Spar twice - both of his opponents were taller than him, but that didn't stop Thomas!

Thomas used several blocks to prevent his attackers from scoring and he scored points on Hammerfist blows to his opponents and won both contests to win first place.Thomas carried his trophy around for a whole day- non stop, taking it into every room. He put it next to Dad's hockey trophy and correctly told me that his was bigger- well what's a Dad to say except, CONGRATULATIONS!

The following week Thomas qualified for the Orange Belt. He had to memorize and successfully demonstrate over 20 stances, strikes, blocks and kicks.

He passed with flying colors and Sensei Becky said he was one of the only kids who actually knew everything. I guess paying attention and practicing PAID OFF!