Latest news with #karate
a day ago
- General
Exclusive Saudi karate prodigy Abdullah Alqahtani hopes to emulate Tarek Hamdi
Four years ago, Abdullah Alqahtani was watching on television as Saudi karateka Tarek Hamdi won an Olympic silver medal for the Kingdom in Tokyo. Hamdi's karate silver was an instantly iconic sporting moment for Saudi Arabia; for Alqahtani, it was transformational. As a promising young karateka himself, Alqahtani saw a fellow Saudi competing – and winning – at the highest level of the sport. He was immediately imbued with a belief that he could follow in Hamdi's footsteps and Alqahtani – now 17 years old – has recently been making his own mark on the sport of karate. For more Saudi sports news, visit our dedicated page. 'Tarek Hamdi's Olympic silver medal was tremendously motivating for all of us Saudi athletes,' Alqahtani told Al Arabiya English in an exclusive interview. 'I remember watching him compete and it showed us that with perseverance and hard work, we can achieve our goals at the highest levels. 'What I admire most in athletes like Tarek are their qualities: unwavering determination, mental resilience in the face of challenges, discipline in training, sportsmanship both in victory and defeat, and their ability to be positive ambassadors for their countries. 'I'm particularly drawn to athletes who maintain humility despite their success and I can confirm Tarek is not only an exceptional athlete but also has a wonderful personality, which makes him a positive role model for younger karateka like myself. 'His achievement inspired us to continue pushing our limits.' Alqahtani has pushed particularly hard in the years since the Tokyo Olympics, aided by the support of the Saudi Karate Federation and Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee. In 2024, he achieved a crowning moment in his burgeoning karate career, winning the World Junior Male Kumite +76kg title. Alqahtani took home the gold medal after beating Italian home favorite Federico Supino in the final of the competition in Venice-Jesolo last October. 'Winning the World Junior gold was an incredible and emotional experience,' Alqahtani recalled. 'The moment was particularly special because I had the opportunity to raise the Saudi flag at this prestigious international event. 'It was a profound feeling of pride – not just for my achievement, but for representing my country on the world stage. The culmination of years of hard work made that moment truly unforgettable.' Alqahtani admits he was first drawn to practicing karate 'purely by chance' but quickly realized he had a level of proficiency that lent itself to competition. While most other teenagers his age in Saudi Arabia tend to focus their attention on football, Alqahtani's life has been karate-centric for several years now. 'As I developed my skills and gained more experience in competitions, I began to understand that with dedication and proper training, I could reach the international level,' he said. 'I love karate because it's much more than just a physical sport. It teaches fundamental values like respect, discipline, and self-confidence. These principles have shaped not only my athletic career but also my character and approach to life. 'The mental aspects of karate are as crucial as the physical techniques, creating a balanced development.' The dual physical and mental demands of karate are significant in competition, when one little slip or small lapse in concentration can result in a defeat. It is for that reason that Alqahtani undergoes a rigorous training regimen. 'I train daily throughout the week, and I've got used to this routine,' he explained. 'Staying consistent means I can refine my techniques, build endurance, and maintain mental focus for competition. 'A daily commitment is essential for competing at an international standard. It can be tough but I've come to learn that what might seem challenging initially becomes manageable with practice and dedication. 'This mindset has helped me overcome various obstacles in competition. The key is persistence and believing in the training process.' Alqahtani will continue to compete internationally within 2025 as he seeks more experience and, of course, more success. Unsurprisingly, his ultimate sporting goal is to emulate compatriot Hamdi and win an Olympic medal in karate. As things stand, however, it is an impossible dream. The Tokyo Games was karate's debut as an Olympic sport but it was removed from the roster for Paris 2024 – and will not be included at Los Angeles 2028 either despite making it onto the initial shortlist. Alqahtani is hoping that by the time the 2032 Games in Brisbane, Australia rolls around, karate may return to the Olympic fold. 'One of our biggest aspirations is to see karate reinstated as an Olympic sport, which would allow us to compete for Olympic medals,' explained Alqahtani, who will be 24 in 2032. 'This is what we all hope for as karate athletes. The opportunity to represent Saudi Arabia at the Olympic Games would be the pinnacle of our sporting careers. 'We continue to train and compete with this dream in mind, hoping that karate will be reinstated in the Olympic program in the future. Achieving success at the highest international levels and continuing to develop as an athlete remains my focus. I want to reach my full potential in this sport that has given me so much.'
SBS Australia
3 days ago
- General
- SBS Australia
From Perth to the podium: How these Filipino girls are kicking barriers and empowering themselves through karate in Australia
SBS Filipino 01/06/2025 36:52 Learning from the sport At first glance, karate might seem like just another extracurricular activity. But for Julianna and Quiana, it's become a way of life — a channel through which they are building confidence, fostering resilience, and proudly representing their cultural roots on and off the mat. Both girls began their martial arts journey at a young age, driven by a mix of curiosity, self-discipline, and encouragement from their families. 'What started as something as small as a sports activity we enrolled in quickly became something we were passionate about,' says 10-year-old Quiana. 'We've learned that karate is not just about self-defence — it's about who you become because of it being disciplined, full of self-confidence.' Julianna, 11, echoes the sentiment. 'It teaches you not just self-defence but how to stay calm under pressure, how to focus, be confident and how to be strong.' The now Year 5 student began learning karate at the age of six, and since starting to compete locally and nationally in 2023, Quiana Zulueta has been bringing home medals. Credit: Supplied by Alma Zulueta More than just winning medals An only child, Quiana began learning karate at around six years old. Since making her competitive debut in 2023, the Year 5 student has amassed an impressive collection of gold medals from local state tournaments across Western Australia. She has also made her mark on the national stage, winning several medals, including two golds, at the National Karate Championships in 2023 and 2025, and a bronze in 2024. "More than a sport, karate has given me a lot. Being active, being disciplined and responsible too. I also make new friends through karate," Quiana shares. Julianna Billones hopes to continue with karate for as long as she can. Credit: Supplied by Dianne Billones Eldest of two, Julianna started attending karate lessons at the age of five. "To prepare for a competition, I train at the dojo four times a week," shares the Year 6 student. "It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but it's all worth it when you see how far you've come." Before discovering karate, Quiana struggled with bullying related to her physique, but the sport helped her build confidence and strength, both inside and out. "I used to be bullied by kids who were bigger and taller than me," Quiana says. "But now, I've learned to ignore them — they don't bother me anymore." Quiana performing her kata (form and drills) during a competition. Credit: Supplied by Alma Zulueta Both Julianna and Quiana train rigorously multiple times a week under the guidance of experienced instructors and have already begun to make waves in local and national competitions. Their kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) performances are earning respect in a sport where female representation, especially among young girls of diverse backgrounds, is still growing. Kicking boundaries While karate is often perceived as a male-dominated sport, Quiana's dad, Allan, believes that "it's a sport that women and girls can equally embrace and excel in". "Since she likes the sport, we as parents are just always here to support her," Mr Zulueta reiterates. Dianne Billiones, Julianna's mum, agrees. "As long as she finds joy in what she's doing, we'll stand by her every step of the journey." "Beyond covering the costs of lessons, travel, and competitions, we always remind Julianna to simply do her best and enjoy the sport." For both Quiana and Julianna, learning a sport mainly dominated by their male counterparts has its challenges, but they understand that karate offers more than just physical skill — it's a source of empowerment. Their focus is more on discipline, mental resilience, and respect for others, developing their stronger sense of identity and self-worth. The two are proving that karate, too, is a powerful force for transformation. They are not just defending themselves — they are confidently claiming their space in a traditionally male-dominated sport, and in doing so, opening doors for others to follow. Julianna Billones (right), when she was just starting with karate, has also inspired her younger sister, Jamie, to try the sport at age three. Credit: Supplied by Dianne Billones Filipino pride As they continue to train and collect medals at such a young age, the two girls are keenly aware of how their Filipino heritage and dedication shape their identity as athletes. 'We're proud of where we come from,' says Quiana. 'It motivates us to work harder and show that girls like us can achieve great things.' The young Zulueta also hopes to one day represent her heritage — if not Australia, then the Philippines — on the international karate stage. The girls are becoming role models in their community, showing that with dedication and the right mindset, young people can rise to meet challenges in any arena. Their journey is also inspiring other Filipino-Australian families to consider karate not just for protection, but for the values it instils: respect, humility, and perseverance. 📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Special needs teen expands the world of karate
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – The 38th Panhandle Championship was held Saturday at North Bay Haven Charter Academy, where more than 130 athletes competed, among the competitors was 13-year-old Jerry Simmons, a young martial artist diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The event was hosted by Grand Master Jimmy Croley and Barbara Croley, who have spent nearly 56 years building a karate community in Bay County. Thirteen-year-old Jerry Simmons has been training for nearly five years at the Croleys' Yoshukai dojo, where he has become known not only for his technique but also for his determination. 'He's 100 percent all the time. And he loves karate,' Jimmy Croley said. 'He used to wear braces on his legs and couldn't walk up the stairs to the dojo,' Barbara Croley said. 'After about six weeks of karate, he went back to the doctor, they took the braces off, now he goes up and down like it's nothing.' The improvement in Jerry's physical abilities has been seen as remarkable by those close to him. 'As a mother, it's been a true blessing,' said Candy Simmons, Jerry's mother. 'His confidence has grown, and his muscles have gotten stronger. Karate has changed his life.' According to the Mayo Clinic, cerebral palsy can impact muscle growth, reflexes, and coordination. Karate, with its focus on controlled movement, balance, and breathwork, has long been used as a tool to build physical and emotional strength. At the Croleys' dojo, inclusion has been emphasized. Students with a wide range of physical and developmental disabilities, including cerebral palsy, ADHD, visual impairments, and mobility limitations, have been welcomed and trained. 'You can learn at any age and with any disability,' Barbara Croley said. 'Jerry is living proof.' Outside of karate, Jerry has taken part in horseback riding and cycling. His growth has also been supported by Square Pegs Learning Center and The Arc of the Bay, where additional life skills and community engagement opportunities have been provided. Through martial arts and the support of his community, a path of confidence and independence continues to be paved for Jerry, and for many others who stepped onto the mat this weekend. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
BBC News
24-05-2025
- BBC News
'If I can save at least one child from knife crime then I'm happy'
A karate instructor running free street lessons after an increase in knife crime has said "if I can save at least one child then I'm happy". Shelim Ali, from Knowle, Bristol, first launched Knives Down Guards Up (KDGU) in 2023. Sessions have been held in various locations - including under the M32 flyover - with the next one taking place at Rawnsley Park in Easton at 14:00 46-year-old teaches basic self-defence, karate drills and awareness skills, while also encouraging attendees to talk to one another about their problems."The only way to prevent knife crime is to intervene early and try and do what we can to influence by implementing some style of discipline and focus," he said. Mr Ali - who has a black belt - has been teaching karate, delivering seminars and participating in competitions for almost 30 years. He grew up watching action films and was introduced to martial arts by his father, before joining Scorpion Karate Academy in Eastville as a teenager. He now works there as a senior instructor, working with about 60 students. The father-of-three said he first set up the KDGU initiative in September 2023 following a number of "very concerning" knife crime incidents in the included that of 19-year-old Eddie Kinuthia, Adam Ali Ibrahim and Mikey Roynon, a 16-year-old from Kingswood, who was fatally stabbed at a house party in Bath in June latest report from the Bristol Community Safety Partnership - published in January - found that there were 400 more crimes involving knives in the city in 2023/2024 compared to the previous year. Data showed that knives were used in 1,953 offences between April 2023 and March 2024. Despite the rise, there were relatively fewer violent crimes in the city compared to the rest of England, but the rate of violent crimes that caused injury per 1,000 population in Bristol was higher than London. The report did however note that the increase in offences with a knife coincided with "increased intensive police operations", resulting in more offences being logged. 'Enough is enough' Mr Ali said he considered waiting for funding or other community projects to offer help to young people, but concluded that "enough is enough" and took it upon himself to share his skills with youths who are "up against the real world".With the sessions all held outdoors, Mr Ali said this helps improve visibility as well as accessibility to the sessions - with young people often coming across them by chance."There's a lot going on in our city and sadly a lot of people are being misguided," he added."It starts off with 'hold this for me', 'can you take this to so and so's house' and next thing you know, they're carrying packages and they're involved in something that they shouldn't be involved in." KDGU was launched as a preventative measure, providing young people with the skills to recognise and respond to peer pressure and conflict, Mr Ali added that the response had been "amazing", with some of the youths developing a more positive recalled one student who was "very active and loud" when he first attended a KDGU session, but after a "calm approach" over the space of six weeks, Mr Ali saw a "huge difference" in the boy. "It's about small steps - you can't apply too much pressure on young people," he added.
CBC
12-05-2025
- CBC
'Why did this happen to me?': Young sexual assault victim speaks at man's sentencing
Social Sharing WARNING: This story contains details of a sexual assault against a child. A young girl and her parents say their trust is forever broken after she was sexually assaulted by Terrance Soucy, 52, of Apohaqui, while he was a guest in their home. "I trusted him so much, and now it's really hard for me to trust people," the victim told the Court of King's Bench in Saint John on Monday, reading her victim impact statement aloud. "I only feel safe with my family and my best friend," she said. A jury found Soucy guilty April 1 of sexual assault, sexual touching and invitation to sexual touching. During his testimony, Soucy described himself as a karate instructor. Social media posts indicate he was also a baseball coach and that he served on the executive of Sussex Minor Hockey. 4 incidents in 2023 A publication ban is in place to protect the identity of the girl, who was under the age of 10 when the incidents occurred. Clutching a blanket and a teddy bear, she previously testified that Soucy touched her private parts under her clothing on four separate occasions in 2023. In each instance, she said, she was playing a video game on a computer in her family's living room when Soucy sat down beside her. Felt sad, scared, confused "What happened to me made me feel really sad, scared, and confused," the victim said Monday, during Soucy's sentencing hearing. "I kept asking myself, 'Why did this happen to me?' I felt mad and hurt inside," she said. "For a long time, I thought what he did was somehow my fault." She wore big hoodies to try to hide her body, she said. "I didn't want anyone to look at me. … I didn't want to be seen." She cried a lot, didn't eat much because her stomach "hurt all the time," and suffered night terrors. At school, she had a hard time focusing, and she was too afraid to go anywhere else because she feared she would see him, she said. "Just hearing his name made me feel really nervous and shaky." Entire family affected, mother says The entire family has been affected, the girl's mother told the court. They all had to watch her "go through something no child should ever have to face." "I saw her pull away from us, have emotional outbursts, and cry uncontrollably," she said, noting she got called at work two or three times a week to pick her up from school or help calm her down, and drove her to numerous medical appointments in Fredericton to try to "figure out what was going on with her." I watched my little girl slowly lose parts of who she used to be. - Victim's mother "I watched my little girl slowly lose parts of who she used to be." The ordeal has also had a "huge impact" on her personally — emotionally, physically and financially, she said. She needed a prescription to help with anxiety and counselling to help her understand this wasn't her fault. "I let Terry into our home," the mother said. "I trusted him. … And he broke that trust in the worst way. He didn't just hurt us — he tore apart the sense of safety and trust we had. "Now, I struggle to trust anyone. I've built a wall around myself, and honestly, I don't know if I'll ever be able to let it down again." The girl's father said it's been like a nightmare he can't wake up from. Soucy has broken their trust forever, he said. "We will never forget." Crown seeks 6-year sentence Crown prosecutor Michael Blackier is seeking a six-year prison sentence, citing the gravity of the offence, the moral blameworthiness of Soucy, the impact on the victim and her family, and case law, including a Supreme Court of Canada case. "There's a clear message that needs to be sent that for denunciation and deterrence, both specific and general, for the accused and for society, to understand that the courts are going to take a strong approach to this type of offence," he said. Defence lawyer Rod Macdonald argued two years would be an "appropriate sentence," and cautioned against assessing lack of remorse as an aggravating factor, "in a case where a verdict is not accepted and appeal is being contemplated." Soucy speaks Soucy maintains his innocence and reiterated this when he addressed the court Monday. "I have great remorse for how these events have impacted my family, my friends, and my community," he said from the prisoner's box, as four women supporters looked on from the front row. "It is my sincerest hope that the victim receives the assistance she needs to guide her through this and overcome any trauma experienced over the past couple of years," he said. "I acknowledge that I have been convicted of these crimes, but we do not agree with the decision of the jury, and I'll maintain my innocence of these charges." Justice Arthur Doyle set over sentencing until May 20. He previously noted the minimum sentence for each of the charges is one year in jail. Soucy remains remanded in custody. Outside court, the girl's mother told reporters no matter how long a sentence Soucy gets, it's "not going to fix anything." He took a young girl's "innocence away," and it's been "two years of hell" for the family, she said.
