The Karate Institute of America welcomes its newest students, Rebecca “Thumper” Marquina and her brother, George, a.k.a. “Hercules.” Obviously, George’s nickname fits him well. He’s massive. And watch out for Rebecca’s power. She is truly a thumper! We look forward to their progress up the ranks.
Jake “Achilles” Dale, flanked by Kim “Cultivator” Thomas (left) and Grandmaster Richard “Whitefire” King (right).
Jake “Achilles” Dale receives praise for his excellent performance during his orange belt test. On Jake’s right is Kim “Cultivator” Thomas; on his left is Grandmaster Richard “Whitefire” King. Achilles is one hot kid and delivers his performances with a lot of pizzazz!
Pictured with Bob are, from left to right: (front row) Kim “Cultivator” Thomas, Mike “Shooter” Benedict, and Adam “Frog” Mahan; (middle row) Clark “Flash” Hyman, Greg “Maddog” Bendel, Richard “Whitefire” King, Bob “Trucker” MacFarlane, and Chris “Growler” Grau; (back row) Tristan “Raptor” Ligtvoet, Jeff “Boa” Norman, Dr. Tim “Odin” McCord, and James “Psycho” Griffin.
A group of Karate Institute of America Black Belts and students come together to celebrate and support Bob “Trucker” MacFarlane (wearing the white gi top and black T-shirt) in his fight against prostate cancer. Bob is very open about this disease and desires to educate others about it. His advice is for all males over forty to get a full prostate checkup, not merely a PSA screening. While Bob’s PSA was fine, it was the full examination that discovered his condition.
Jake “Achilles” Dale poses proudly with his family after earning his orange belt from the Karate Institute of America. Annette “Warrior” Dale, a KIA Green Belt, is accompanied by her husband, Mark, and daughter, Sofia “Cannon” Dale.
It’s great to hear from former students. Pictured here in his rock climbing attire is Todd Alston, also known as “Thunderpunch,” for his incredible punching power.
Todd studied at the Karate Institute of America back in the 1980s. As well as being a great human being, he was also a tournament fighting champion and a dominant member of the KIA’s Demonstration Team. As one can imagine, Thunderpunch was also a stellar inspiration to the other students.
Jake “Achilles” Dale poses in preparation for his orange belt test on February 20. Jake is the son of KIA green belt Annette “Warrior” Dale and her husband, Mark. Achilles looks like a true karate kid, eh? A lot of talent in this young man, and so well-mannered, too!