Chris Welbon Karate’s competitive team traveled to Orlando last weekend for the first AAU tournament of 2015. Among its many medalists was Katie Maddox, who won a bronze medal for kata in her first karate tournament ever.
What was the competition like?
It was me and 12 other kids. I had to do my kata three times.
What was it like going in front of judges and a bunch of people and competing for the first time?
It was great.
What was your favorite part about the competition?
All of the medals.
How long have you been practicing karate?
I’ve been doing it for 11 months.
What’s your favorite thing about it?
You get to learn things.
What’s your favorite thing that you’ve learned so far?
My kata.
You’re a blue belt right now. When do you get your next rank?
Probably today (Tuesday).
What made you want to try karate?
I wanted to learn how to defend myself, and work with other students.
Do you play any other sports?
Just karate.
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not doing karate?
I like to go on my computer and play games. I like to play Scrabble.
Who’s your favorite athlete?
Mr. Welbon. He’s very good, and he’s understanding. He’s the best sensei ever.
If you could meet anyone famous, who would it be?
Meghan Trainor. I would probably sing with her.
Where do you go to school?
Springhead Elementary School.
What’s your favorite subject?
Reading. You get to read by yourself, and you get to read really good books.
Do you have a favorite book?
“Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library.”
When’s your next karate tournament?
It’s in February. I’m hoping that I can get a gold medal.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To read people’s minds. If I can know what they’re thinking, I could probably give it to them.