Help Carstens Get To Judo World Championships U18

Hi, my name is Carstens , a 17-year-old judoka from Australia. I have recently been selected to represent Australia in the Cadets Division at the Judo World Championships in Croatia this August 2023, and I am fundraising to make this dream a reality.

My Journey

I started doing judo when I was five, and over the years, I’ve put a lot of work into improving my performance. I now train six days a week to achieve my goals.

Last year, I got the opportunity to join the Judo Australia U18 Development Squad. And then, earlier this year, I had my first opportunity to compete internationally in Germany and the Czech Republic. I did relatively well, with a seventh place in the Bremen Masters U18 and two wins at the Teplice European Cadet Cup.

In June this year, I won a gold medal at the Australian National Championships in my own age division (U18), as well as the age division above (U21).

I was then selected to participate in the Asian Cadet Cup tournaments in Hong Kong and Macau. At both of these competitions, I won a gold medal in my age division. These performances led to my selection to participate in the World Championship in Zagreb, Croatia and then the Pan-American Oceania Championship in Calgary, Canada.

What Judo Has Taught Me

Judo has taught me to get up every time I fall, no matter how many times that is. It has also taught me self-discipline, self-respect, and respect for my opponents. I share my passion for judo with my dad, and he has taught me a lot about the philosophy and values that underpin the practice of judo. I believe these lessons will help me throughout my life.

Dedication and Responsibility

When I was 14, I decided I wanted to get my pilot's license. I found out that I could do a VET course in Aviation, and needed to find a way to pay for it all. I started doing gardening work and property maintenance for a few clients, and for the past three years, I have been working in all my spare time on weekends, holidays, and days off, as well as before school on some days, to save enough money to pay for my Aviation course. I also took up a barista job in a local café to make sure I earn enough money for my Aviation course.

I’ve already qualified as a Recreational Pilot and will complete my Private Pilot License this year. My goal is to continue my studies next year, and ultimately fly for one of the airlines.

When I joined the Judo Development Squad and qualified for overseas trips, it added another layer of expenses for me to consider.

I am currently in Year 12 and have had to learn to manage my time wisely to ensure that I do well academically while keeping up with my Judo training, flying, footy, and work.

I am personally responsible for all the expenses related to my Aviation training, and while my parents have helped me with the cost of my previous international trips, I need to do my best to contribute as much as I can as it all adds up.

Why I Need Your Help

While I've worked hard and saved diligently, I am not able to make enough money in the short term to pay for my Aviation studies as well as to go to the World Championships.

The upcoming trip involves participating in the World Championships in Croatia and then flying to Canada to participate in the Pan-American Oceania Championship.

In between competitions, I will also attend two international training camps, which will make a huge contribution to further developing my judo skills.

Giving Back

I am regularly attending the classes for the 4-6 year olds and 7-10 year olds at Yarra Judo to help coach and inspire the young kids. I aim to be a role model for younger athletes and demonstrate the positive impact of dedication, discipline, and hard work. I hope to inspire them to pursue their dreams and overcome adversity.

Conclusion

I am grateful for any contribution you can make to help me get to the World Championships. Your support would mean a lot to me and my family. Thank you for believing in me and being a part of my journey.