Valley represented at karate tournament

Members of Sierra Dojo Martial Arts Center again attended the West Coast Karate Classic Tournament in Roseville, Calif., on May 5. The event is held each year and hosts more than 300 competitors from northern California and Nevada.

"This is the sixth year our students have attended, and they never fail to place in whatever event they enter," said chief instructor Diane Ortenzio-Cooling. "Considering we are a small school, that's a heck of a record. All of their training has paid off."

Each competitor showcased their martial talents to the judges by first demonstrating their focus, balance, spirit, timing and strength in the forms divisions. Then they go on to compete in sparring matches with others of the same skill level and age. Most divisions, especially the juniors, had 12 or more competitors vying for the top positions and honors.

Results were:

Advanced boys, ages 13-16: Chris Duarte, first place forms, first place sparring; Kevin Duarte, fifth place forms, fifth place sparring; Andrew Cobourn, third place forms, fourth place sparring.

Advanced girls, ages 10-12: Holly Kerrigan, fifth place forms, second place sparring.

"They're also honing their skills for the next local event, which will be Martial Arts Expo IV on Oct. 20. All schools and styles are invited to compete and together raise money for local charities." Ortenzio-Cooling said. "It's held twice per year, and grows each time it's held."