Zach Barnes, director of the Bryan College Martial Arts Academy, won the titles of Grand Champion in Kata and Kumite at last weekend's Middle Tennessee Isshinryu Open Karate Competition, hosted by the Lebanon Dojo.
Barnes, who has directed Bryan College's martial arts program for several years, won the overall championship in adult kata, which focuses on the execution of karate patterns and movements. Barnes' skills earned him a top spot among many competitors from the area. In addition, Barnes also performed well in kumite, a sparring category that involves intense, controlled combat. Barnes' dedication has earned him two Grand Champion titles.
The Bryan College team, comprised of David Holcomb, Zach Barnes, Daniel Cone and Laura Neff, showcased their talents by winning the team competition. “I feel very fortunate to have performed well in both matches,” said Barnes. “But for me, competing with my team, which included my first black belt promotion, my fiancé and my mentor, was the highlight of the day.”
These victories are personal wins and important milestones for Brian's team. Under Burns's guidance, the Academy is thriving, attracting students who want to learn martial arts in a Christian environment. Burns' two championships and the team's success are sure to inspire students and elevate the Academy's standing.
Scott Shamblin, a 9th degree black belt and off-site advisor for the Academy, expressed satisfaction with these accomplishments: “Sensei Burns' victory is well-deserved. Winning Grand Championships in both kata and martial arts is a rare feat for a practitioner. Burns' victory reflects a well-rounded performance from the entire Bryan team.”
The Academy's success at MTIOKG underscores the quality of instruction at Bryan College and the potential for students to excel under that tutelage. As the team returns to campus with titles in the air, their enthusiasm is contagious. Through these recent successes, Burns is perpetuating a tradition in the martial arts world and inspiring a new generation of fighters to excel both on and off the mat.
