The Artsakh branch of the Traditional Karate-do Federation
of Armenia has reopened in the town of Abovyan as a club. The founders are
President of the Artsakh Federation Aram Gevorgyan and Coach Tigran Gevorgyan.
“Currently, only 5 children attend the club. Many people
have not even heard of us. But we are now running an awareness campaign and
hope that our number will increase over time,” Tigran Gevorgyan said.
Children over 4 years old can enroll in karate groups. They
have rented the area and have bought everything necessary, while the mat has
been donated by the Traditional Karate-do Federation of Armenia.
“Traditional karate is not that developed in Abovyan. We aim
to develop it here with a professional approach and to stimulate interest among
children,” he said.
Before their displacement, Tigran and his friend had planned
to open a branch in Yerevan. The place had already been decided; they were to
open a practice hall for karate on the first floor of a private house, and a
private kindergarten on the second floor. Today, it has all become a reality.
Instead, they have lost what they had achieved in Artsakh over the years.
Recalling his students’ achievements, Tigran notes those under the age of 14
were European and World champions, prize winners, those over the age of 14 also
had various achievements as well.
