Stunning performances at the NSW and ACT titles, qualification for the nationals, nominations for three of his dojo’s most coveted trophies and being awarded one of them.
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It’s fair to say nine-year-old Dallas George had a big year in 2016.
He’ll eclipse it this year though, when he represents Australia for the first time.
Under the guidance of Renshi Anthony Wharton at Orange’s Kumiai Ryu High Impact gym, George has qualified for selection in the Australian Martial Arts Championships (AMAC) team to compete at the world titles in Japan, New Zealand and Sri Lanka.
He’s done so in five disciplines too across three different age groups.
He’s set to compete in under 10s point sparring and freestyle sparring, under 12s extreme forms and under 13s weapons and sumo.
“The focus of any martial art is development. It’s the pursuit of what is, realistically, a virtually unattainable perfection. That’s something a nine-year-old won’t achieve, it might take a martial artist 90 years to achieve it so it’s all about the journey,” Wharton said.
“This is a massive step in Dallas’ journey. We’re all very proud of [Dallas], I’ve always said if you’re standing out at High Impact you’re doing pretty well.”
Wharton said George’s success is largely due to his passion for martial arts, in particular karate, and his dedication to preparation.
“Dallas is still developing as a martial artist and he’s got a very big future,” Wharton said.
“He’s very passionate, particularly with his training and he’s very focused as well. He’s [at High Impact] six days a week training, we can’t get him away from the place.
“Dallas is also quite religious in terms of competing in the AMAC circuit tournament.
“We have a small group here that will make most of the AMAC tournaments but Dallas makes virtually every one, so that’s where he’s starting to stand out.”
George’s selection continues High Impact’s stellar record of producing Australian representatives. Nicole Lowe-Tarbert is also in the squad again, while Sophie Courtney and Mitch Anderson have represented before as well.
Anyone interested in sponsoring, or helping George get to world titles, in any way, can contact High Impact or Zara Wells on 0421 834 088.