Karate & Fitness USA team from Lafayette returned home triumphant from the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) Region 6 Karate Championships and USA Team Qualifier held in Chicago, Ill., over the May 3rd weekend. AAU is the largest sports organization in the country.

    A small but mighty group of only four athletes, the team delivered an outstanding performance – earning a total of 11 medals in Kata (forms) Kumite (sparring) Kobudo (weapons).

    This year’s event featured participation from over 40 karate schools from across the nation, making it one of the most competitive AAU regional qualifiers. Individual achievements included Adam Tam (3 gold), Leslie Valentine (2 gold, 1 silver) and Mariah Santos (2 gold).