DOWN SYNDROME KARATE STUDENT EARNS HIS 5TH-DEGREE BLACK BELT - BELIEVED TO BE A FIRST IN THE USA
Aug 29, 2022
Written By Evan Bloom
(Standing L to R) Hanshi Rande Lawrence and Eric Scharoun
Achievement believed to be the highest rank attained by a person with down syndrome in the United States
FAYETTEVILLE, NY. – August 29, 2022 – Eric Scharoun has just earned his 5th degree black belt and it is believed that this is the highest karate rank achieved by a person with down syndrome in the United States.
59-year old Scharoun has been a student at Lawrence World Class Karate dojo in Central New York where he has been training with Hanshi (Master) Rande Lawrence for over 30 years.
To receive his 5th degree black belt and achieve the rank of Godan, Scharoun was tested by Hanshi Lawrence over a period of three weeks. The test was comprised of elements of fitness and endurance. Scharoun had to demonstrate his Kubudo (weapon systems) competency and Kata (choreographed set pattern of movements) capabilities.
Scharoun’s impetus to study Karate came from his love of Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris movies. His mother introduced him to Hanshi Lawrence in the early 1990s and he has been training and learning at Lawrence World Class Karate ever since. The two have a significantly strong bond established on trust and respect.
“I love my karate and enjoy learning all the various moves,” said Scharoun. “I have met lots of great people at the dojo and they support me and help me. Karate is a big part of my life.”
“Eric is amazing, and I am exceptionally proud of him. He worked very hard to earn his belt and rank,” adds Lawrence. “He has been an exceptional student and is constantly motivated to learn and achieve. He represents the principles of karate and our dojo, and many students can learn from his incredible journey and commitment.”
Hanshi Greg Tearney assisted Hanshi Lawrence with Scharoun’s karate test.
Lawrence World Class Karate dojo is the only karate school in Central New York specializing in traditional Japanese Shotokan and Okinawan Goju-ryu Karate Systems.
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Press contact:
Evan Bloom
Fortress Strategic Communications
(315)744-4912