Dream takes ‘Karate Kid’ from Chevallum to the world stage

Chevallum’s Autumn Rowe, 11, with her mum Claire Woolridge, is preparing for the GKR Karate World Titles in the UK.

A quiet Sunday afternoon watching the original Karate Kid has led Chevallum State School student Autumn Rowe, 11, all the way to the GKR Karate World Titles in the UK this July. 

The 11-year-old has been studying karate with Go-Kan-Ryu Karate for just 23 months, but has already become the reigning Double Queensland State Champion in the Under 11 Female 4th–6th Kyu division.

Across regional, state and national competitions, Autumn has earned 11 top-three placings from just five competitive events, in both kata and kumite.

Her mother, Claire Woolridge, said the family never imagined watching the movie would lead to Autumn preparing to fly to London for a world championship less than two years later.

“Never did we think that one Sunday afternoon watching the original Karate Kid, would see us heading to the World Championships two years later,” Ms Woolridge said.

Karate has also helped Autumn grow from a shy, introverted child into a disciplined and confident young leader.

In less than two years she has completed six belt gradings and is now a 4th Kyu Red Belt, just three belts away from achieving her Black Belt Shodan Ho.

Autumn proudly represents the Queensland State National Squad and dreams of becoming the youngest Sensei on the Sunshine Coast, with the hope of one day leading her own classes in the martial art she loves.

Ms Woolridge, a single mother, is covering the cost of getting Autumn to the World Titles and has launched a fundraising raffle to help meet the travel expenses.

“Rather than just start a Go Fund Me, I approached inspiring local businesses, all of whom have donated some sensational prizes in support of Autumn’s World Title Dreams.”

 See below, a QR code linking to Autumn’s fundraiser page for readers who would like to buy raffle tickets and support her journey.