LACIE-MAE ROSE

Lacie-Mae has been training with Arena Karate for five years after being inspired to start martial arts by watching The Karate Kid. What began as an interest sparked by a film soon developed into a passion for karate, competition and personal development.

Now a 5th Kyu (Blue Belt), Lacie-Mae is a committed member of the Arena Competition Squad who enjoys continually learning new skills and challenging herself through training and competition. One of the things she enjoys most about competing is the opportunity to develop her abilities while being part of a supportive team environment.

Over the years, karate has helped Lacie-Mae grow in confidence, discipline and self-belief. While she enjoys striving for success in competition, she also values the friendships she has built through the club and the opportunity to spend time doing something she genuinely enjoys.

Her commitment and hard work have recently been rewarded with selection to represent Team GB at both the WTKA European Championships and the WTKA World Championships. This exciting achievement marks a significant milestone in her martial arts journey and gives her the opportunity to compete against some of the best athletes from across Europe and around the world.

Karate has become a family affair for the Rose family, with Lacie-Mae and her brother Leonard both training, competing and supporting one another as members of the Arena Competition Squad.

When asked what she enjoys most about being part of Arena Karate, her answer perfectly reflects what keeps many students coming back week after week:

"Being able to do something I like and being with my friends."

Looking ahead, Lacie-Mae hopes to achieve her next belt, continue building on her competition successes by adding even more medals to her collection and make the most of the opportunity to represent Team GB at both the WTKA European Championships and the WTKA World Championships.

Outside of karate, Lacie-Mae enjoys singing and baking, giving her plenty of opportunities to express her creativity away from the dojo.

For anyone considering entering their first competition, her advice is simple but powerful:

"Believe in yourself, don't overthink it and just have fun."

When asked who has been her biggest supporters throughout her martial arts journey, Lacie-Mae was quick to recognise the people who have always been there for her:

"My mum and my friends in the dojo."

What does karate mean to Lacie-Mae?

"Learning discipline and discovering more about myself."