Canadian Siblings Shine at World Karate Championships, Winning Bronze Medals

Canadian Siblings Shine at World Karate Championships, Winning Bronze Medals

November 15, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Sports

Brooke and Jase Irwin Shine at World Championships

Brooke and Jase Irwin from Sault won bronze medals at the World Karate and Kickboxing Commission (WKC) World Championships. The event took place in Albufeira, Portugal from October 26 to November 1, with 14 countries participating.

The siblings, who practice Hap Ki Do, achieved their victories in the 10 years and under division. Brooke secured bronze in Korean open hand forms, while Jase earned his medal in continuous sparring.

“It felt amazing,” Brooke shared about her win. Jase added, “I felt like I owned the place.”

This was their first trip abroad for a sports event. They traveled with their parents, Tasha and Chris Irwin. “It was exciting to visit another country,” Brooke said.

Team Canada had a large presence at the championships. Brooke expressed pride in representing her country. “It made me happy to win for the country.” Jase echoed her sentiments, stating, “We were able to show Team Canada is one of the best.”

Their mother, Tasha Irwin, felt proud of their hard work. “They trained six nights a week. To see them up there on the podium was a very proud moment for us.”

Brooke and Jase qualified for the World Championships by winning in Sudbury, then claiming victory at the Nationals in Ottawa. “They said, ‘we’re going to make it there,’” Tasha recalled.

Both children hold a blue belt in karate and began training in 2019 with Grandmaster Frank Sacchetta, later with Rudy Timmerman, and now with Chief Master Ronda Bourdage. They practice at Anna McCrea Public School.

Tasha expressed gratitude for their instructors and local sponsors, including Trimount Construction and Ignition Eatery.

Brooke enjoys martial arts for its strength-building aspect. “It makes me feel strong,” she said. Jase finds it helpful for self-defense. “I like it because it makes me feel like I don’t have to be scared.”

Both siblings aim to continue their martial arts journey. They plan to qualify for next year’s World Championships in Niagara Falls, New York. Their goal is to win gold medals.

“We’ll train now and in the spring they’ll go to Sudbury to qualify,” Tasha explained. Their parents are ready to support them in all their competitions. “We love to travel,” Tasha stated.