Sofia Reyes at the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF) National Tournament. (RDCRS)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Sofia Reyes

St. Lorenzo student medals at national karate tournament; off to worlds in September

Jun 13, 2024 | 2:48 PM

A St. Lorenzo Ruiz Middle School Golden Eagle will be looking to soar at a world karate tournament this fall after medaling twice at a national tournament held last month.

Officials with Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) say Sofia Reyes, a Grade 8 student who trains at the Shotokan Karate Club of Red Deer under the guidance of head coach Rahul Channan, won two silver medals at the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF) National Tournament in Richmond, British Columbia on May 18.

It’s noted the tournament was Sofia’s first at the national level and in both final matches, she battled hard against black belt competitors. She finished second in both the 12-14 Female Brown and Black Belt Jiyu-Ippon Kumite and 12-14 Female Brown and Black Belt Jiyu Kumite.

Due to her success on the national stage, RDCRS says Sofia has qualified for the ISKF World Shoto Cup, which will be held in London, England from September 19-22, 2024.

Officials say Sofia began her karate journey at the age of nine and has dedicated five years of practice and intense training to the sport. She has medaled in back-to-back ISKF Provincial Tournaments, picking up a bronze medal on March 9, 2024, and two silver medals and a bronze at the 2023 provincials.

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“My journey in karate is all about continuous improvement. Achieving the black belt and winning gold medals are my ultimate goals, but I know that the process and the lessons learned along the way are just as important,” said Sofia. “For me, karate is about striving for excellence and embracing every opportunity to improve. The world tournament in September is a chance to showcase my skills and learn from the best in the sport.”

“We are incredibly proud of Sofia and her dedication to karate,” said Rob Coumont, St. Lorenzo Ruiz Middle School principal. “Her commitment to continuous improvement and her upcoming participation in the world tournament is an inspiration to all of us at St. Lorenzo Ruiz Middle School.”

For more information on the Shotokan Karate Club of Red Deer, please visit www.reddeerkarate.com.

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