Fundraising efforts are underway to help a local teen fulfill his dream of competing in Japan.
Michael Corbett, 13, is one of seven members, including fellow junior student Francesca Van Esch, 11, of the Elora Gorge Karate Dojo heading to the 2012 International Dai Sensei Mei Toku Yagi Memorial celebration in Okinawa, Japan from March 1 to 6.
“Getting to go to this tournament is a real honour,” Corbett said. “It means I will get to compete on the world stage in my sport, right in the birthplace of karate.”
Corbett won the invitation to compete in Okinawa after taking third place for kata in the senior brown belt division at the 2011 World Karate Championships hosted by Guelph’s Budo Kan Centre for Martial Arts last June.
“I am really proud of him,” said Corbett’s mother, Maureen. “Michael’s really excited to have this experience, and he’s never flown before, so it will be quite a trip for him.”
But it is a costly trip, too, and one that has made this experience nearly unattainable for Corbett.
A fundraising event was held at Crazy Carole’s Restaurant in Elora last month that included a silent auction and door prizes.
“The silent auction was really great,” said Maureen Corbett.
“I’d like to thank local merchants in both Elora and Fergus who donated items to the silent auction, including artist Tim Murton, and the help of Sensei Phil McCullough and Brad Graham for their generous donations. And of course, my staff at Crazy Carole’s”
The event raised $1,051, but the ultimate goal for Corbett’s trip is $6,000.
The trip involves two weeks in Japan, including airfare, food and accommodations.
For Corbett, it will be worth the debt he will incur just to be a part of the honour of this event.
According to Sensei Van Esch, being included in this event has put the Elora Gorge Karate Dojo on the international stage.
“We are now a part of the international Meibukan Gojyu-Ryu Karate-Do Association,” Van Esch said. “We are now training directly with our source and now the only dojo in Centre Wellington or North Wellington to be certified by or officially registered with this association of 62 dojos.”
Despite concern about raising the funds for the trip, Corbett is focused on putting forth his best effort during the competition in Japan.
“I’m not really nervous,” Corbett said. “I am to excited to see the culture and sites in Japan.”
A bake sale fundraiser is scheduled for Feb. 11 from 9am to 1pm at Crazy Carole’s Restaurant on Wellington Road 7 in Elora. Donations for Corbett’s Japan trip can also be made at this location any time.
A bank account has been arranged for donations via the TD Canada Trust branch 2402 in Elora, with account number 6273260. To contact the Corbett family, email maureencorbett@wightman.ca.
