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In lockdown Dakota takes Gold

29 June 2020  |  fnscreative

Over a three-day period, Year 10 student Dakota competed in the National Karate Associations ‘Virtual Championships’, representing her club JS Karate Academy. She competed in the Disability category in which competitors send in a ‘Kata’ performance to be judged by four referees. A Kata is a solo demonstration of a fight sometimes lasting over 50 moves long. After 3 tough rounds Dakota finished in 1st place in every round, taking home the Gold Medal. Dakota’s Karate Coach Sensei James Scanlon organised the competition which was open to all members of the National Karate Association with clubs in Ripon, Bedale, Masham, Thirsk, Northallerton and Grimsby.

Dakota’s coach organised the competition to give all students something to focus on in this lock down period. For Dakota this was great motivation and something to work towards. Dakota has been practising Karate for almost four years and has a lot of competition experience competing in regional competition all the way up to National Championships.

Sensei James says “I am very proud of Dakota, all her hard work has paid off. Some students find competing difficult, sometimes daunting and it was a good challenge for Dakota and her competitors to compete independently in their own space at home, be it outdoors or in their living rooms!”

Dakota was so shocked to take Gold, this was her first 1st place award. Dakota would love to go to the Commonwealth Games next year as a competitor, she looks forward to being back in the Dojo when the academy reopens!

Dakota’s Mum say’s “A huge thank you to Sensei James Scanlon who is a brilliant coach and supports each and every one of his students.”

JS Karate Academy looks forward to opening fully and hopes to continue inspiring young people, whether it’s at the Dojo or at home.

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