Youth Athlete Highlight - August

Savannah Truesdale – Black Belt

What got you started in martial arts?  What keeps in involved?    My Mima and Papa introduced me to karate when I was just 4 years old. They wanted to ensure I could protect myself and learn self-defense. It’s been a long journey to earning my black belt, which I achieved last year, and I’ve had the privilege of training with many incredible people along the way. Some I continue to still train with.

My passion for competition drives me. Last year, I won the NASKA Championship and a PROMAC overall sparring champion titles, which fueled my desire to continue training, fighting, and winning.

 What's the most epic pre-competition meal you've ever had?  Choosing one is tough, but I’d say my favorite is the pre-tournament ritual I share with my friend, Nora. Before major events, we dine out at some pretty great restaurants, but my top pick is Travinia’s. I usually steer away from my usual chicken strips and go for the Flatbread, finishing off with a Crème Brûlée for dessert.

Imagine you're giving a pep talk to your younger self just starting out in karate. What's the one piece of advice you'd give them?  Trust the process. Never give up and always believe that nothing is impossible.