Over 160 competitors from as far away as Queensland took part in the championships held on October 22. Among those competing were 11 from Young ranging from six to over 30 years old. 

Nathan said the high-standard competition was the perfect scene for both beginners and advanced competitors. 

In his first competition Young’s Lachlan Holmes took out first place in the Freestyle Sparring, meanwhile Tommy Wark also excelled on the day with a first in Kata and third in sparring. 

“In his training Lachlan has always been very shy and has kept to himself, so it was a real positive step for him,” Nathan said.

“He’s stepped out of his shell and is beginning to focus a lot more – it’s been a big self esteem boost for him.” 

Elden Rowan also excelled on the day, winning both his Kata and Sumo events. 

Another high achiever on the day was Nathan who won all six of his events – Kata, Weapons Kata, Points Sparring, Points Contact, Freestyle Sparring and Full Contact – to bring home Overall Grand Champion for the fourth time. 

Steven Rowan took out third place in Kata, Logan Bodel fourth in Points Sparring, and second in Sword for Tyson Hunter. 

Miley Ward, Xy Ward, Dani Pearce and Darcy Godsell also competed and walked away with more competition experience and are hungry for the next competition.

Nathan said he was extremely proud of his students who have shown enormous progress.

“They walk into the room for the first time, they’re very shy and closed off, but now that they’re starting to progress they’re starting to open up,” he said.

“Whether they win, lose or draw they always come back with a smile – they give it all they’ve got, they don’t hold back in any way.

“Some days they might walk away a little disappointed but I never think that way of them, I think they’re champions for stepping out on the mat.

“I couldn’t be happier with my students.”