Fall down 7 times, get up 8

This year was, I believe, Ryan's fourth karate tournament. Unfortunately for him, it didn't quite go as well as he'd hoped/trained for. He was very frustrated at himself, and disappointed. I was sad for him, devastated, even. I see how hard he trains, and it was tough to see him struggle and face defeat. However, I couldn't have been prouder of his hard work to get there, his efforts that day, and his improvement over the last year.

His dojo won the Most Outstanding with the most points, as they are so lucky to learn under one of the highest ranking instructors in the league.

The three cousins post-tournament, so happy to be done! Keni placed twice, Riki placed three times, all golds...which allowed him to tie for Most Outstanding Competitor. He's done this twice now, which is pretty amazing given that he spends most of the year training in baseball and recently, cross country.

My little guy performing one of his kata for the judges...he tied for third, but lost the tie breaker. Crushing to watch, but he did so well!

Sparring has never been his favorite discipline, but I thought this was his best effort yet. He's getting better each year.

He placed second in weapons...and his dojo mate took first. Super proud of him and all the boys and girls we get to see training every week.

My heart can only handle one of these long days a year, as watching three boys compete in three events = endless anxiety/heart pounding from morning to late afternoon. However, next year the regional tournament will also be held in Hawaii, so we'll have one a tournament in summer and another in fall. So we will have two next year! I'm hopeful for Ryan that it goes a little differently/better on the next go round, but I'm super proud of him no matter what. He has dedication I've yet to ever possess, and I know that someday, perhaps even more than just one someday...it will pay off. And really, in many ways, it really already has- he's stronger mentally and physically, more confident and learning how to handle disappointment with grace and good sportsmanship.

I have to thank his karate village for that- the instructors, the black belt sempais, his friends at the dojo and their families for being such a supportive community.