WBC supports Karate classes for kid

An extended hand of friendship bridging boxing and karate, as the WBC supported a day of classes and exams of this classic martial art at the Colegio Aleman, Campus Norte, Lomas Verdes.

The two Karate Schools of SM Martial Arts and PM Martial Arts combined to hold exams for beginners, intermediate and advanced level. The SM Martial Arts And Workout School run by Monica Sulaiman, has been flourishing for eight months. In that time it`s gained forty five students and membership is growing. In February it will celebrate its first year. It`s the only one of its kind certified by the World Boxing Council.

Monica said: ”It`s my dream having my own school, because I love kids and it`s awesome to work and accomplish this and we`re moving forward. I myself am a Third Dan Karate Black Belt and I`ve been doing karate for sixteen years. Karate is discipline and memorizing all the way from white belt to black belt, also the competition and tournaments because you meet a lot of people and make a lot of friends.

”An exam involves all of the forms, but also attitude, discipline, how much spirt plus determination, the way you do it, respect, coodination.”

Co-Coordinator and Event Organizer Pablo Moreno who runs PM Martial Arts explains that ninety students are involved in this huge event, in groups of twenty. Pablo who is also a Third Dan Black Belt, started karate aged six and has been doing it for twenty five years. He has been a Pan American and World Champion and wants to give back to the martial art, which has given him so much. To change lives for the better. He explains: ”We start at three years old and go all the way up to ninety nine and older. It`s never too late!”

The undoubted star appeal class was the beginners, some as young as just three. Five main Instructors gently, kindly and with fun and hugs, gently put the youngsters through their paces. Running, flexibility which at that age comes so easily, basic kicks and punches and then each of the eighteen students broke a wooden slat with a kick from one of their feet. All cheered on my their parents and their families.

The energy, enthusiasm, sheer fun and capacity to learn was a treat to watch and an education to behold. And after the class, each child was awarded a higher grade of white belt and a WBC medal on a green sash. What a great way to channel energy, purpose and positive vibes for young lives, so full of promise, joy and purpose for a bright future.