Five Barrie martial artists ranging in age from 9 to 50
years old are Ireland bound this fall as part of the Canadian national karate
team. The five train out of RMA Karate Centres and after securing their
spot on the 250 member Canadian team, are ready to take on martial artists from
19 other countries.
Third degree black belt Tressa Young is a seasoned national
team member making the team for the ninth time. With 56 world medals
under her belt including multiple world champion titles since first making the
team in 2003, the head instructor of the south Barrie karate school has the
experience and skill to bring home gold once again. Last year at the
world championships in Italy, Young won 7 gold and 2 silver medals for
Canada. The nineteen-year-old black belt started training in karate at age
four accomplishing more than most at such a young age. Coined as
“Canada’s Sweetheart” by World Karate & Kickboxing Commission’s director
John Douvris, Tressa Young continues teaching national and international
champions while also dabbling in film stunt work on the side.
Also making the national team and heading to Ireland is RMA
black belt instructor Linda Young along with students Liam North, Sale Berube
and Shamus Berube. Under the instruction of fourth degree black
belt Craig Ridout and third degree black belt Tressa Young, all five continue
with their dedicated training with their goal of bringing home gold.
To learn more about RMA Karate Centres or the athletes
heading to Ireland visit www.rmakarate.com.
