Quinn Represents Canada in Santiago, Chile

Dear Friends and Family,

I started practising karate in October 2014 when I was 4 and a half years old. Finding the West Van Karate Academy and meeting my Sensei were two of the best things that have ever happened to me. I instantly looked up to Sensei Matt and almost never missed a class.

Over the years karate has taught me so much and allowed me to grow into the person I am today.

The friendships I have made at the dojo have been another major highlight. The karate community is very special to me.

Last year, when I was twelve I made the BC Team after winning a silver medal at the 2022 BC Provincial Championships. I went on to compete at Nationals in Newfoundland that year placing 5th in my division. That experience motivated me so much I decided it was time to double, even triple my training at the Dojo and at home.

The hard work paid off and I ended up winning gold at provincials in April - on my 13th birthday! I went on to compete at Nationals in Quebec in July, taking home a bronze medal. This landed me a spot on Team Canada and an auto invite to Nationals in 2024! A week after returning home I received this letter:

“Dear Quinn,

Karate Canada is thrilled to invite you to represent Canada in the M U14 -50kg category at the 2023 Junior Pan American Championships, taking place in Santiago, Chile, from August 24th-26th 2023…”

I couldn’t believe it! Only the top two athletes in my age/weight category can go to Pan Ams so I realized how lucky I was that one of those spots opened up.l bumping to second position. After giving it a lot of thought and speaking with my parents and Sensei I decided it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.

Santiago is really far away and there are a lot of fees, mandatory gear and expenses that add up. My goal is to help pay for half of the trip and I’m reaching out to friends and family to help me get there. Thanks for taking the time to read this and for all your support!

Sincerely,

Quinn