Karate kid on the world stage
A future martial arts superstar may be in our midst. Alex Vij, 15, has already been earmarked for an international career.
Alex, who attends Newtown’s Athena school, has won a total of 79 formal sword matches and is on his way to represent Australia in New Zealand and Japan in 2012.
He competes within his own style of karate as well as other major styles.
In July, Alex attended the third international Federation of Karate under 18s tournament in London, winning against Israel but narrowly losing to England.
He competed in the New Zealand Martial Arts Championships in November, placing in all six events that included sword fighting, basic sumo wrestling and set floor displays.
The Principal at the Athena School, Fiona Milne said: “It shows us what you can achieve in this modern day and age, when you have that sort of dedication as well as having people to support you and back you up.”
While attending the Australian Martial Arts Championship in Queensland, Alex managed to place first in sword fighting and gain two second places in weapons free fighting, even after needing first aid for a shin injury an hour earlier.
“We’re all so proud of this young man who’s gone after his dreams and dedicated a lot of personal time to achieving them,” Ms Milne said.
“He’s definitely chuffed, he’s just worked so hard, and at such a young age.”
In 2012, Alex has been invited to join a squad competing across major styles of karate: he will represent Australia in the match set to attract contestants from all over the world.
By Georgia Fullerton
