Above: Max is excited about showcasing his karate skills in front of a live audience
12-year-old Max Rudge will be travelling to Warsaw later this week to test his skills at the European WUKF Karate championships.
The dedicated youngster, who has been practising karate since he was just four years old, will be competing in the Junior Kata portion of the competition which starts on Thursday 10 October, where he will showcase his skills and precision in front of international judges and a live audience.
The 2023 edition of the championships, held in Dundee, attracted more than 2000 participants and coaches, as well as 4000 spectators from across the globe. This year’s competition in Warsaw is expected to be even bigger.
“I’m very excited about competing,” enthused Max. “I’m pretty confident in my skills, but it will definitely be a challenge taking on so many other athletes. I’m really looking forward to visiting Poland too.”
Max, who attends Dame Allan’s Boys’ School, is passionate about the benefits that karate and sport in general can bring.
“One of my favourite things about karate is that it has helped me to get to know people and make friends. It is the same in school, I only just moved up to Year 7, but I am already settling in and making new friends thanks to getting involved in sports and joining the rugby team. Everyone has been so supportive!”
Alongside his studies and rugby commitments, Max trains three times a week at Kensho Karate Dojo, in Gateshead.
Proud parents Jonathan and Anna commented: “Max has worked really hard at his karate over a long period of time so we’re delighted and incredibly proud to see him reaching such a high level of competition and experiencing an international event. His club and school have been brilliant in supporting and encouraging him in doing his very best”.
Mr Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, added: “Max’s dedication and commitment to karate is an inspiration to all of our pupils. We always encourage pupils at Dame Allan’s to follow their dreams and persevere in their passions, so it is great to see Max having such success. I wish him the best of luck in the Championship.”