Kathy is a 1st degree Black Belt in Professional Martial Arts, and has been studying Karate since 2000. She sees the Martial Arts as more than exercise, conditioning, or self-defense though all of these are a part. It is a way of life that maintains physical fitness while providing positive direction to social interactions with others and mental alertness. There is always more to learn and much to improve in ways that are quite different from day to day life, but improves all facets of life.
Kathy was first exposed to Karate while attending aerobic kick boxing classes at PMA. Both Mr. West and Mr. Wilson taught these classes which included many of the basic techniques of Karate. It was also an opportunity to talk to students of Karate and see their class activities.
She received her 1st degree rank in 2005 after 5 years of study at PMA as well as participation in a variety of seminars. These included George Dillman Summer Camps in 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2008 where she learned from internationally recognized masters. Other activities include attending all Budo Camps, a Pressure point seminar with Jim Corn in 2001, a 2 day Modern Arnis Workshop with Remy Presas Jr, and several months of instruction in Gracie Barra ground fighting.
Kathy has participated in 16 tournaments to date including the Sunflower Games, Tornado Internationals, and a number of locally sponsored events. She sees competition as a way to see other styles and sharpen her own skills and has 12 first place, 11 second place, and 9 third place awards in Kata, weapons, and point sparring.
The Martial Arts are a satisfying life time endeavor that makes you a better person.
