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Eli’s karate tournament

Eli competed in a tournament for the first time in Isshinriyu karate, an Okinawan style. He had a fun time visiting with the kids from the Tae Kwon Do school (where he started his martial arts training). He performed his kata (routine) very well … the second time. Alas, when he was almost done, he blanked out and got lost in the routine, so asked to start over. He did, and performed very well. If he had not had the mandatory deduction for starting over, he would have placed first or second! Here is the opening part of his kata:

Eli’s kata 1

The main judge came to me afterwards and said Eli had done very well despite having to re-start. She said that most kids who forget, just totally blow it on the second attempt, and Eli had done even better on the second try than the first. I think that is awesome… that he had the guts to say I forgot, start over, and then do it BETTER. Good on Eli! Here’s another photo from the end of the kata:

Eli’s kata 2

In fighting, he survived three rounds with other kids, despite the fact that he hasn’t sparred with kids in over a year.

Eli sparring

He does practice with the adults in the Isshinriyu dojo, though, and is quite good. Still, I think he would benefit from being around kids more. Eli learns more of the martial arts in the dojo, and because he is so intense and focused, this is a good thing for him. But being able to goof around with kids is good, too! And being fit and strong is best of all!

One Response to “Eli’s karate tournament”

  1. Jacquie Says:

    Good for Eli! In fact, I’m giving him three cheers and a tiger! Keep us posted, proud mama!