Destiny Martial Arts with three winners at national championships

This tournament is considered to be the biggest martial arts event held in Australia.

It was an invitation only event with over 400 of the best martial artists competing.

The competition was extremely challenging, however our school came away with three big winners.

Elizabeth Zouait, was awarded first place and Australian Champion in Sword Combat, and first place and Australian Champion in Point Sparring.

Club Instructor Brayden Rodrigues was awarded first place and Australian Champion in Traditional Forms and first place and Grand Champion in Traditional Forms.

Destiny's Master Clarence Rodrigues won first place and Australian Champion in Point Sparring (black belts over 50 years) and first place and Grand Champion in Point Sparring (Over 35 years).

Master Rodrigues and Instructor Rodrigues both won first place and Australian Champions in Self Defence.

Clarence was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, a year ago at age 60. His prognosis was not good. He underwent surgery, chemotherapy and ongoing treatment, which took a massive toll on his health and fitness.

Clarence said he used inner strength that came from over 40 years of martial arts training to slowly regain the ability to return to the sport in the hope he could compete at a tournament level again.

He remains one of most respected and revered instructors in the industry and despite his prognosis remaining unchanged he continues to be positive.

Master Clarence said: "don't let anything stand in your way of your dreams. Surround your self with positive people and family".

"My family and the students from Destiny Martial Arts Australia give me all purpose and encouragement I need to fight the toughest battle of my life".