A team representing Canada at the World Karate and Kickboxing Commission’s World Championships this October will have some familiar faces.
Justin Powell, Director of Martial Arts Academy, and his students Mallory Courtemanche, Mikael Taillefer, and Ethan Cox have all qualified for the tournament in Orlando, Florida this fall.
The athletes qualified after an impressive showing at a National competition over the weekend.
Mallory Courtemanche took fourth place in continuous sparring and fourth place in point sparring.
Mikael Taillefer placed second in continuous sparring, fifth in points sparring, second place in forms and fifth points sparing.
Ethan Cox placed third in forms and qualified for team Canada though Powell says he’s choosing not to travel.
For Powell, he took silver in continuous sparring.
All four have earned the right to represent the country.
Powell says it’s a first for both himself and the academy’s students.
“I’m very proud,” he shares. “It’s a life-long dream, to be honest.”