Community News - Community News Written by Contributing Writer, Wendy-Diaz
Friday, 04 December 2009 22:51
After numerous victories in their first tournament earlier this year, Aqabah Karate shined once again, welcoming home Hernan Abu Uthman Guadalupe from the Battle of Baltimore World Championships held at Essex Community College in Essex, MD.
Abu Uthman captured two world titles in Traditional Karate and Kung-Fu forms and placed second in Men’s Sparring and third in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He was the only competitor representing Team Aqabah, but he made sure to leave a lasting impression for the school.
“Participating at the tournament was my way to give Aqabah Karate publicity. I wanted other schools and competitors to know about our school and to know that Muslims are practicing martial arts, as well,” says Abu Uthman of his eagerness to compete. “I also competed to test myself and to see how I compare to other martial artists at my level.”
Abu Uthman is the latest addition to the Aqabah Karate staff assisting with both children and adult classes. He practiced the art of Kung Fu in his teens and is no rookie to martial arts tournaments; however, he took a 10 year break to focus on his education and his career.
Just nine months ago, Abu Uthman found himself significantly overweight and concerned for his health. He decided he needed to change his lifestyle and joined Aqabah Karate. After only a few months, he lost 50lbs and won titles in a number of top-level competitions, including the Battle of Baltimore.
“It was a great experience all in all. I received a lot of great feedback from a number of masters and judges. They were very impressed with our school and our level of training,” said Abu Uthman.
Aqabah Karate was not the only Muslim martial arts school present. Al Azhar Silat school also competed, as well as other Muslim martial artists from several schools. Abu Uthman said he was excited to see other Muslims during the championships.
“Seeing and competing against other Muslims made the tournament that much more fun. You knew you weren’t totally alone since there were other brothers and sisters participating and showcasing their skills. It was nice to be among them and to show them what Aqabah is capable of.”
There is no doubt that the instructors and students of Aqabah Karate are really making a name for themselves: from participating in competitions to in-house belt promotions. Now with a reigning champ in their midst, the school hopes greater accomplishments will take place. More battles are sure to come and Team Aqabah will be there to meet the challenge, insha’Allah.
The contributing writer is a member of Team Aqabah - TML
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