The winners of the sparring event for six-year-old yellow and orange belts. First place (center): Philip Ouma; second place (left) Joshua Post; third place (right) Jules Branitz.
The New Paltz Karate Academy held its tenth annual tournament, featuring over 200 competitors from five schools, on February 18. The tournament at Lenape Elementary School included students from New Paltz Karate Academy, Traditional Okinawan Karate of Pleasant Valley, Traditional Okinawan Karate of Brooklyn, Traditional Okinawan Karate of Kinnelon, NJ., and East Morris Karate Academy of Whippany, NJ.
New Paltz Karate Academy is not a tournament-oriented school. Tournaments, however, are a good opportunity for students to learn to perform under pressure. They are also a way for the students to show what they have learned to their families, their friends, and themselves. For many, simply competing in the tournament is an example of a student’s progress.
A large pizza party was held immediately afterwards for the competitors and their friends and families.
New Paltz Karate Academy is located at 22 North Front Street, New Paltz. For information, call 255-4523.