Fifteen of Pollet’s Martial Arts’ finest dominated the International Sports Karate Association (ISKA) Western National Open at Bathurst in late February, bring home a plethora of trophies earned from a massive 25 top three finishes.
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In particular, the dojo’s Tigers – for martial artists aged six and under – were superb.
Six youngsters competed and dominated, claiming plenty of trophies between them. Jake Fitzpatrick, Bailey Schmich, Blake Gavin, Liam Stibbard, Aston Lett and Jaris Latupapua all impressed in their respective disciplines.
Of the seniors, Sempai Jess Puxty claimed wins in Koshiki and Sychronised Kata and also claimed second in Kata while Isabella Cordery won her Kata and Sychronised Kata events, she also finished second in Weapons.
Bailey Marr, Harry Puxty, Seraphin Keedle, Keith Hughes, Tristan Douglas, Jack McFawn, Sempai Matt Cordery and Brenton Sordham picked up, combined, five more wins a swag of other seconds and thirds across plenty of disciplines, including Sumo, Jiu Jitsu and Points Fighting.
“It’s not very often that someone doesn’t come away with something, they’ve done really well, we’re very proud of everyone,” Sensei Emma Gavin said.
“So that’s the first ISKA event of the season. They’ll keep competing now, then they can qualify for the ISKA Australian team and head overseas. I think this year that team goes to Greece.”
The Pollet’s competitors who performed well last year head to the ISKA NSW presentation dinner, where they’ll be recognised for their 2016 achievements.
That’s followed by the ISKA NSW Open, the state titles.
“All the events are gearing up to the (ISKA) World Cup this year,” Gavin explained.
“World Cup selection is later in the year. You get certain points for each result, that gets you an ISKA ranking.”