One-legged Brazilian Karate-ka comes to the homeland of Karate for international tournament

One-legged Brazilian Karate-ka comes to the homeland of Karate for international tournament

Jonas Amaral de Fleitas competing in the elimination round at the 1st Okinawa Karate International Tournament. August 2, Okinawa Prefectural Budokan in Naha


August 3, 2018, Ryukyu Shimpo

“Karate is overcoming adversity.” Jonas Amaral de Fleitas, 25, a karate-ka from the Jyureikan Silva Dojo who lost one of his legs in an accident, performed at the 1st Okinawa Karate International Tournament. Amaral, who performed in the elimination round of the tournament, said with a sense of fulfilment, “If you have passion, anything is possible. This is a dream come true.”

Nine years ago, Amaral was shot twice in his left leg in his hometown. The injury required his left leg to be amputated below the thigh. Feeling hopeless, he kept himself cooped up in his house. Then, in 2011, on the recommendation of a friend, he went to a sports club and was introduced to Brazilian Ju Jitsu. He also tried Tae Kwon Do but, “Karate was the best fit for me.” He soon devoted himself to Karate.

Four times a week, Amaral trained at a dojo in San Paulo, learning to control his body on just one leg. He rapidly improved to the point where he was placing as a finalist in tournaments in South America. This is his first time visiting Okinawa, which, as the birthplace of karate, he says is a “dream.”

In the afternoon of August 2, at the Okinawa Prefectural Budokan in Naha, Amaral’s number was called for the elimination round of the Shuri-te and Tomari-te competition. Placing his crutch down, he hopped up to the competition.

With his gi whipping around, sharp fists cut through the air. The competition finished, and a thunderous applause broke out and continued for some time.

“I did not make it through the preliminary round, but I have no regrets. It is an experience I will never forget. Karate allowed me to get my confidence back. I want to continue improving, and come back to Okinawa,” said Amaral, smiling.

(English translation by T&CT and Sam Grieb)

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