Issue 8 - March 2009 - International Chito-Ryu Karate-do Federation ...

Kira AlexanderAge: 13Rank: 12 th KyuDojo: Gold CoastHow long have you been doing karate?Roughly 2-3 yearsWhy did you first start Chito-Ryu karate?We had just moved to the Gold Coast, and I lovedoping karate, so we looked for a new dojo and Ijoined this great clubDo any of your family or friends train with you?NoHow often do you train at the dojo?3 times a weekKira (right) kicking Tracey Wilde at the 2008 QLD CampDo you train at home? If yes, what do you do?, where do you train?Yes. When I train at home I usually do mind practise (seeing myself doing things correctly in my mind). But Ialso do physical practise with kata and kicks in the backyard. (If I tried to do long range karate inside I wouldprobably end up breaking something)What is your favourite thing about training in Chito-Ryu karate?It helps to build up my self-esteem, and it’s also good exercise to help me build up my stamina.What is the most challenging thing in your karate?Getting good strength in to my kicks and punches.What is your favourite karate technique?The mae geriHow has karate helped in your life?Karate has helped to strengthen and toughen me, and has also helped to boost my self-esteem.Describe your favourite Chito-Ryu karate moment.My favourite Chito-Ryu Karate moment was when Sensei Adam said: “Right, everyone get a Bo”What is your karate goal?My goal in karate is to get into the Olympics with it, and also to raise my self-esteem a lot higher.Sensei's Comments (Sensei Adam Higgins)Kira has come to the Gold Coast Chito-Ryu Karate dojo with experience in another style of karate, she hastaken on board the challenge of learning the Chito-Ryu with passion and enthusiasm. Starting again as awhite belt can be de-motivating but Kira has shown maturity in humbly accepting this and continued to trainwith the goal to always improve her technique and herself. Kira has attended the first QLD Camp and had agreat time, I am sure we will see Kira as a regular participant at Chito-Ryu events for many years to come.River of Knowledge – Autumn 2009 24