Karate kids meet the master

THE referee from the original Karate Kid movie met the next generation of Kenpo Karate stars during a visit to Castleknock last week.

Master Bob White, who holds a Ninth Degree Black Belt in Ed Parker’s American Kenpo Karate, has met many of the world’s most famous martial arts superstars and was impressed with the local youngsters who are following in their footsteps.

He was the referee in the Karate Kid’s final fight scenes and has continued his involvement as both a consultant and on the publicity side in subsequent films, including the 2010 remake starring Jackie Chan.

Bob was in town to pay homage and pass on tips to members of the Castleknock Kenpo Karate Academy at a special seminar. The local academy has been teaching martial arts in the community for the past 27 years and senior instructor, Professor Julian McDermott, is a world renowned fighter.

He has been World Champion twice and European Champion a remarkable 12 times, as well as a member of a formidable Castleknock Kenpo Team who are known throughout the Kenpo World.