Getting their kicks

Douglas McArthur, a 1st degree brown belt, takes a practice roundhouse kick to the face from Hunter Charest, also a 1st degree brown belt. Both are members of the Smoky River Karate Club, a club teaching Shotokan Karate. Shotokan Karate is among the oldest styles of Japanese martial arts and focuses on speed and agility. The Smoky River Karate Club was founded in 2002 and has operated continuously year round since then. The club is directly affiliated with the Seihoku Ryu Karate Club in Grande Prairie. Students participate in tournaments and seminars and several members recently traveled down to Airdrie. Classes are held at the Elks Hall in McLennan on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 pm. The club accepts students from age five and up and new members are always welcome.