Cochrane will be represented at the 2017 National Karate Championships in Quebec City.

Of the 50 athletes representing Alberta at the National Championships, 8 are from Cochrane. This year is a qualifying year so these athletes will not only be representing Alberta, but hoping for a spot to compete at the Junior World Championship to be held in 2018.

Participants that are selected for this team have a wide range of qualifications they must meet before being considered. The athletes must be in the top two in the province in their weight and age division, then beyond that, they must be considered at a National calibre by a panel of coaches for Team Alberta. It is not only about the medal count, but physical and mental readiness is just as important.

Adam Wacksershauser, Ippon Dojo, Owner, says that Alberta is in a booming phase right now and the competition is stiff for a spot on the team. The goal is to send the right people at the right time.

"If you send someone and they aren't ready, it can be terrible for them. And if you don't send someone who is ready, you might miss out on a opportunity to medal at the Nationals."

 Wackershauser, has been running this club since 2005 and  has produced many National Champions. He is very excited about the athletes, ages 12 to adult this year, that will be traveling to Quebec with him. 

 Karate has just been announced as an Olympic event, his athletes are starting to dream big. Wackershauser says this has created a spark within the karate world.

"A lot of these kids are dreaming of competing in 2020 in Tokyo. That passion is building in the coaches and kids and we want to start thinking about getting them qualified for that."