YOUNG martial artist, JJ Smith who trains in Westbury, is the youngest person to have been awarded a national recognition award for his outstanding talent.
Ten-year old JJ, who trains at Kime Karate Club in Westbury, has received the award for his outstanding commitment to karate, working hard in lessons and travelling up and down the country to train with myriad teachers to get more experience, despite suffering from Crohn’s disease.
The National Association of Karate and Martial Art Schools (NAKMAS) bestows the prestigious NAKMAS Star Award; an award of recognition for outstanding talent and abilities within its membership, both adults and children. JJ has been training with Jeff Smith and Kayleigh Eaton at the Leigh Park Community Centre in Westbury from the age of five, and he has recently achieved his black belt.
His martial arts training has given him confidence and focus for all areas of his life including his studying.
Jeff Smith said, “I’m pleased for JJ achieving this award, it’s a huge success for him. As a club we try hard to teach our students of all ages and abilities, the spirit and values of traditional martial arts and JJ is always keen to show that spirit.
“JJ is a fantastic role model for our younger and older students alike; he is always willing to help people and strives to be the best martial artist he can be. With the grit and determination he shows, I am sure he will have a bright future in martial arts.”
JJ uses his karate to fundraise for Crohns and Colitis UK where he puts on events to help raise funds to research more into these diseases. JJ has recently had a few medical setbacks and been told by adults around him he needs to rest more, but his determination to continue training has resulted in his setting up a blog ‘My Crohns Journey’ on Facebook to write about his progress.
Kayleigh Eaton, JJ’s mum said, “I am so proud of JJ, he is dedicated to his karate and works so hard both in the class and at home. JJ loves to find ways to fundraise that incorporates his passion. In the New Year he is planning a sponsored sparathon to raise money for Crohns and Colitis UK.”
NAKMAS national chair, Joe Ellis said, “NAKMAS has seen individuals throughout its 27 years, showing real talent and abilities. We created this award to highlight individuals that NAKMAS feels should be recognised nationally, and with our full support. We have been hearing about JJ for a while and have pleasure in making him a recipient.”
The award includes a special gold foiled certificate, highlighting the recipient on the Star Award website (www.staraward. nakmas.org.uk).
