Karate student named grand champion

Members of the Batesville Karate Club attended two tournaments of the Southern Martial Arts championships, both in Madison.

Makinza Talley has emerged as a serious contender. Talley was named the overall Grand Champion for the three tournaments this season in the children’s 18-and-under category.

She won first in forms and third in sparring at the April tournament.

At the third tournament May 19, she swept the categories placing first in forms and sparring and was named Grand Champion in children’s 18-and-under category.

As overall grand champion, she will receive a SMAC Grand Champion jacket which will be presented in the fall.

Also attending the second tournament were Brooklyn Downs and Ryan Downs.

Brooklyn was second in forms and in sparring. Ryan was second in forms and third in sparring.

The club is sponsored by the City of Batesville Parks and Recreation Commission and is taught by Granthams Martial Arts Academy, Inc. under Master Allen Grantham.