AND THE WINNER IS....

Thanks to everyone who submitted an essay and to the hundreds of students,
parents, family, and friends who voted.

AND THE WINNER IS....

We had essay contributors ranging from young kids to parents; over 50 in
total. All discussing the positive impact that the Martial Arts have had
on their lives.

AND THE WINNER IS...

After spending the last week making sure that all the votes were fair the
recipient of the $500 grand prize was determined.

Here is the winning essay...

Karate has done so much for me since I started six years ago. I knew
when I started it was more than a sport, it was a philosophy and way of
life, but I had no idea it would eventually impact me in such a way and
become such an integral part of my life. I have become more responsible
for my own actions, and have learned to focus on the task at hand.
Karate has helped me to plan goals that are attainable, and this has
helped to give me a determination and follow through I would not
otherwise have. Karate has also become integral to my life through
helping others, and I have become a more compassionate person.

Two weeks after I started karate, when I was eight, my grandmother was
diagnosed with cancer. After a grueling nine months of watching my
grandmother deteriorate, on the day of my first tournament, I won a
bronze medal. I took my medal to show my grandmother. Later that evening
she died.

Since then I have become more aware of the battle with cancer and the
things that karate has taught me, like responsibility, compassion,
attaining goals, etc. have aided me in helping in the struggle against
cancer, both through Karate Chops Cancer and my own efforts.

Karate has helped me focus my energies on not just thinking about
cancer, but has given me the drive to do something about it. I believe
this wouldn't have happened if karate hadn't come into my life when it did.

I have become more compassionate through my journey as a karate student.
I wouldn't be the person I am today if not for my training. Karate has
meant so much and changed me for the better that I wouldn't wish to be
any different.

CONGRATULATIONS CONNOR FRID FROM BRAMPTON!!!

Start  polishing up your writing skills for next year!!!

UPDATE:!

AMA Essay contest winner, 14 year old Connor Frid donates his $500 prize
to Karate Chops Cancer. What an AMAzing person!!

Sempai Percival