11 Year Old Peterborough Boy Going To Italy With Team Canada For World Juniors Karate

Phoenix Walker, 11, from Peterborough, has been selected to represent Canada at the WAKO World Juniors in Karate, being held in Italy in September.

Walker was selected to compete in the Ontario Winter Games last year, though they were cancelled due to COVID. Photo courtesy of Cynthia Grant.

Walker started karate four and a half years ago, at summer camp. Now, in grade five, he is training five days a week.

“It’s a lot of hard work,” said Walker. “I like doing kicks and special moves.”

He will be competing in three categories; Forms, Weapons and Point Sparring, his favourite being sparring.

“I like the sparring, I like doing all my kicks and hand techniques.”

Walkers mom, Cynthia Grant, says she is so proud that he’s been able to stick to his training, even throughout COVID, and while having many other hobbies.

In addition to karate, Walker trains in Muay Tai, is in the Eco and LEGO club at school and enjoys many other sports.

Walker says he’s never been on a big trip and he’s excited to travel to Italy.

“I’m feeling very pumped about it,” said Walker. “I’m very excited to go - it’s a beautiful place.”

A GoFundMe has been set up in hopes to offset the cost of the flight, accommodations, food, entry fees, medicals and equipment. One of Walkers parents must accompany him because he is a minor, which is increasing the cost of an already expensive trip.

“He’s done tournaments, he’s done training and he loves it,” said Grant. “As he’s getting older it’s getting a bit more serious, the expectations are getting higher. Now, it’s a matter of how much do you want to kick it up.”

Walker says he will be happy to compete, no matter the outcome.

“I feel pumped, I feel confident that I’m going to win. Or if I lose I’ll feel happy for the other kid that gets to win.”

To help Phoenix get to Italy, donate here.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.