FMA students compete at AAU National Tournament

Competitors representing Freedom Martial Arts are (l to r) Olivia Altizer, Master John Altizer (instructor), Sierra Altizer, Zach Wiseman, and Dakotah Brinkley.

Members of Freedom Martial Arts, located in New Kent, competed in the AAU National Tae Kwon Do tournament during the July 4 holiday weekend. Four members of the team took to the mat in a variety of divisions at the tournament in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Olivia Altizer, 13, began the competition for Freedom Martial Arts. Despite suffering a torn ACL during the opening match, she finished all three 90-second rounds prior to the event being called by the referee.

Sierra Altizer, 11, was victorious in her first round matchup, achieving victory via a 20-4 “mercy rule.” She was victorious before succumbing in her final match.

Zach Wiseman, 10, posted a victory in his match by the “mercy” rule in his division. He was the smallest athlete to spar in his class.

Dakotah Brinkley, 11, was the smallest athlete in his weight class. He competed well, advancing to the quarterfinal round.

The team was instructed by Master John Altizer, who trained with members of the United States and Canadian National teams in preparation for this tournament.