Karate club kicks off fall season in new home

They haven’t invented a new type of block, a strike or punch, though. In fact, the club will literally be moving on Sept 10, and everyone is invited to the inauguration of their new space in Marianopolis College.

Participants of all levels are encouraged to attend the event and try out the association’s offerings. Admission to the inauguration practice is free, and

Westmount JKA spokesman Nigel Penney says the new facilities are absolutely beautiful. “We have a brand new dojo — that’s our name for the gym — which is actually a new dance studio with a sprung hardwood floor, with mirrors. It’s absolutely everything you could wish for karate,” said Penney.

Westmount JKA will continue to offer programs for the whole family, beginning from age 8 onwards. Sessions are 90 minutes long and will take place on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays beginning Sept. 10 for the fall season.

Penney said that karate is appealing to many because everyone can succeed at it. There is no right or wrong way to go about it in terms of the speed at which you progress, he said. “People have found it really a wonderful sport because it’s not competitive in the sense that you’re not competing with people around you. You’re really setting your own personal goals and achieving them at the rhythm that you like to.”

Penney has been a member of the association for the past five years, and said that he has much more energy now than he did when he began. “I really credit karate for bringing me to that level of performance,” said Penney.

To get a taste of what is kicking at the Westmount JKA this fall, head out to its inauguration practice. “We hope to see as many people as possible at that session. Come try it out. No special equipment needed; just come as you are,” said Penney.

The inauguration practice for Westmount JKA takes place Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. at the Marianopolis College recreational facility, 4873 Westmount Ave. For more information, call 514-691-9307 or 514-937-6039 or visit www.westmountjka.wetpaint.com