On Saturday 28th February 2009 my nephew took part in the Amateur Martial Association International Karate Open at Ponds Forge Leisure Centre in Sheffield. Laurence is 9 years old and has been training with the Links Karate Club in Clacton-on-sea, Essex for about a year and so is still considered to be a relative novice but he appears to have found a sport at which he can excel.
Last November Kerry, Nathan and I went across to Bristol to the National Karate championships to watch Laurence fight in the 9yrs and under boys Kumite and compete in the Kata competition. He did exceptionally well and won his kumite category easily, conceding only one point in the entire competition and winning the final match with a staggering score line of 9 points to Nil.
Unfortunately I was unable to make it to Sheffield on 28th Feb but from what I have heard and seen (see photograph) Laurence did extremely well again in both Kata and Kumite. This International competition saw fighters from no less than 20 countries compete in one of the most prestigious tournaments on the Martial arts circuit. Laurence fought his little heart out and was very happy to come away with a bronze medal.
It should not be underestimated what a fantastic year in Karate Laurence has had, as a relative newcomer to the scene he has competed at the very highest level and been successful against much more senior and experienced opponents. I have witnessed for myself how Laurence has grown in confidence and stature over the last year and I have every confidence that it won’t be long before we see him don the England team tracksuit!
A very proud Uncle,
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