ATHLETICS KARATE
MAC Junior Competes at Karate Nationals Charlie Kingsley traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to compete in the inaugural National meet
M
AC Karate is tremendously proud of Charlie Kingsley, who participated in first National Karate Championships, was held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Charlie competed in the 10-yearold novice division in both kata (forms) and kumite (sparring). This division is for participants who have trained for one to two years. Charlie has been training hard all year, attending classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, as well as competing at several local tournaments in the Seattle and Portland area throughout the spring and early summer.
Though you can see some sadness that Charlie did not medal, he was very gracious in defeat. Isn’t that what competition is all about?” -Sensei Bill Plapinger
Sensei Bill Plapinger and Charlie Kingsley at the first National Karate Championship in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Charlie reported that training and preparing for the tournament was really hard, but that he felt like he was ready for this competition. “I was really nervous before competing, but I ran over all the pointers Sensei Bill gave me and tried really hard to do as instructed, to stay calm and focus on myself. This is especially important in the kata competition because you compete simultaneously against the other competitor so it was important to focus on what I need to do to win,” he said. When asked what he liked best about the experience, Charlie said, “Just being there, seeing all the rings and number of competitors. It was awesome!” Charlie’s parents know that karate has helped with strength, conditioning, focus and confidence. Sensei Bill Plapinger was very proud of Charlie. “Success at a tournament is not always measured in the medal count but knowing that you competed at your best. Charlie represented Multnomah Athletic Club as well as any competitor. Though you can see some sadness that he did not medal, he was very gracious in defeat,” he said. After all, “isn’t that what competition is all about?” Charlie is already looking ahead to next year. “I recognize where and how I can improve to be more competitive in next year’s National Championship. Salt Lake City, Utah, here I come!” WM
Annual Wreath Sale Benefits Karate Program MAC Karate’s annual wreath sale fundraiser is underway. Every year in October, karate students raise money to support their fellow athletes, build community, have fun together and contribute to our larger organization. Decorate your home during the holidays with lovely fresh wreaths, swags and garlands all at truly reasonable prices. Wreaths can even be sent to friends and family. Orders are taken through October and items are delivered to the MAC right after Thanksgiving. For pricing and more information, contact Scott Chauncey at Scott97225@aol.com or 503-312-1067.
64 | The Wınged M |
OCTOBER 2016