Congratulations to the members of TEAM AKA who competed successfully at the Queensland Karate Championships on the 12th and 13th of May, 2012. Nic Berry won his first 3 matches stylishly in the huge 10/11 years kata division but did not place. In the 10 year old kumite, another huge event, he won his way through to the semi finals but was disqualified for accidental contact against the eventual winner. He had to settle for third but it was a great performance for the 3rd kyu Brown Belt up against more experienced black belt competitors. Nic should make the State Team.
Hugo Kawamoto gained 3rd place in the kata and 2nd place in the kumite thus earning a place in the State Team. Hugo also put in a great performance and has been working hard all year in preparation for the championships. Cheyne McMahon made a return to competition after an absence of some years and gained 3rd place in the heavyweight kumite division. He was selected for the State Team on his performance. Cheyne made the decision to participate in the fighting section just 3 weeks from the competition and despite not being match fit and undergoing no training for the event was able to medal.
Chris Hannington put up a strong performance and was only just beaten by a point. He made it far enough to gain selection in the State Team. Karleen Hannington was leading in her kata match and playing off for 3rd place when her foot slipped slightly right at the end of her performance. She did however gain a 3rd place in her kumite division thus ensuring selection for the State Team.
Oscar Kawamoto, Khoa Nguyen, Sean Hannington and Michelle Perry all tried their hardest but were unable to medal on the day. The AKA has only just returned to the Australian Karate Federation competitions and we acknowledge that it will take us some time to adjust to new rules. In saying that though we also acknowledge that because it is such a strong competition, its an excellent opportunity for the club members to be challenged into lifting their game to higher performance levels. We feel we are on the way back to the success we enjoyed many years ago.
Cheers,
Bob McMahon
