I first started training karate when I was 7 years old in Regina, Sask. I can’t say what drew me to karate but it was the only thing I wanted to do and was very clear with my parents that it was the activity for me. Eventually, my family and I moved away from Regina and I did not rediscover training until 2004. My husband, Sensei Glen Smith, had opened the Kanto Sho Karate Club in 2002. I felt this was a great opportunity to return to something that I really enjoyed as a child and that I could potentially have success with as an adult. Training karate has been a blessing in my life. It has improved my fitness and has empowered me both physically and mentally. When I step onto the dojo floor, all other stresses of the day are forgotten and I focus on teaching students and my own training. Teaching students is a great gift, it is amazing to see people learn and grow in their practice. Their successes are infectious and it inspires me. It also challenges me mentally to understand the art, it’s applicability and improve my own practice.
I have had the opportunity to compete in tournaments locally, and internationally in Alaska and in Japan. The focused training for tournaments is challenging and rewarding as it pushes you to refine your technique, increase your skill, speed and be stronger mentally and physically.
What I love best about karate is that it is a family affair. My husband, daughter and I all train and teach together. It is a shared activity and one which permeates our lives in so many positive ways. Karate and the dojo has created community for us. We have made great friendships over the years and long lasting connections here in Calgary, across Canada and abroad in Japan. I am thankful to Sensei Glen Smith, Sensei Rob Kirik and Kikumura Sensei for their teachings and guidance over the years.
Brief History of Training and Life Experience
- 2004: Started Training with the Kanto Sho Karate Club
- 2010: Received Sho-dan
- 2012: Received Ni-dan
- 2015: Received San-dan
- Co-developed and co-facilitated self-defense program to Calgary Police Service Youth programs, Non-profit social service agencies (staff & youth), Guides.
- Developed and taught school residency programs – 2017-2021
- Partnered with Boom Wellness Collective (formerly Dubasov Dance & Wellness), to teach classes for children, youth, and adults experiencing cognitive and physical disabilities – 2016-2018
- Partnered with Trico Centre for Family Wellness to teach semester classes to children ages 4-12 – 2014-2019
- 2023: Received Yon-dan
- Teach private lessons – ongoing
- Certified in First Aid and CPR
- Current Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sectors
Placed gold, silver and bronze in following tournaments:
- Canadian Shotokan Karate Association
- Calgary Open Martial Arts
- Alaska Renbukai Karate
Competed in:
- 2010 & 2014: All Japan Full Contact Tournament Kumite and Kata
I have been teaching for 20 years and currently teach ages 5 +. I also teach and oversee the women’s karate class at the dojo.
After 13 years with Aspen Family, a non-profit social service agency in Calgary working with vulnerable children, youth and families in the community I decided to re-direct my energy into the dojo. I am also a Volunteer Coordinator at a long term care facility for seniors experiencing dementia and volunteer myself on a Calgary Youth Justice Committee.