8 Arena Karate athletes have been selected to represent Team GB at the WTKA World Championships in Italy.
Mabel has been training with Arena Karate for just over a year and has already become a much-loved member of both the club and the Arena Competition Squad. A fun-loving and cheeky young lady, Mabel brings plenty of energy, enthusiasm and smiles wherever she goes. During her first year of training, she has progressed to 13th Kyu (White-Black Belt) and has embraced every opportunity to learn and develop her skills. Inspired to start karate by her Uncle Simon and Grandad, she quickly discovered a love for training, learning new skills and being part of the team.
Although she is one of the newer members of the competition squad, Mabel has approached competition with confidence and enthusiasm. What she enjoys most is cheering on her teammates, having fun and winning medals along the way. Her positive attitude and encouraging nature make her a valued member of the squad, and she is always ready to celebrate the successes of her friends as much as her own.
Mabel's favourite competition event is Kickmaster / Slam Man, where she enjoys challenging herself and putting her skills to the test. As her confidence continues to grow, she is now looking forward to taking the exciting step of entering her first Kumite competition.
While Mabel enjoys competing and challenging herself, it is the friendships she has made through karate that mean the most to her. Being part of Arena Karate has given her the opportunity to train alongside teammates who have become good friends, creating memories both on and off the competition area. The supportive and welcoming atmosphere of the club is something she particularly values and is one of the reasons she enjoys being part of the Arena Karate family. When asked what she enjoys most about being part of Arena Karate, her answer perfectly summed it up:
"The friends I have made."
Looking ahead, Mabel hopes to continue progressing through the grades, achieve her Red Belt and gain more experience in competition as she continues her martial arts journey.
Away from the dojo, Mabel also enjoys playing football, demonstrating the same enthusiasm for teamwork and sport that she brings to karate.
For anyone thinking about entering their first competition, Mabel has some simple but excellent advice:
"Just go for it and have fun."
Throughout her martial arts journey, Mabel has been supported every step of the way by her family. When asked who her biggest supporters are, her answer was immediate:
"My Mum, Dad and Grandad."
What does karate mean to Mabel?
"I love karate."