Local karate trio finishes tournament season with 24 total trophies

Portland, Ore. — Local karate stars Taylor, Audrey and Michael Jenkins Jr., continued to surprise at the 24th annual Mighty River Classic Nationals Karate Tournament, the largest tournament offered in the Pacific Northwest, held Nov. 4 at The Portland Expo Center.

In their final tournament of the year, the Jenkins siblings have once again left their mark on the karate scene. This trio of young karate enthusiasts are not just competing, but carrying on a legacy of dedication and passion inspired by their family's deep connection to martial arts.

Guided by their parents, Sarah and Michael Jenkins Sr., who said they have a profound appreciation for martial arts, the Jenkins siblings continue to pursue their martial arts journey with fervor. Their father Michael Sr., is not just a supportive presence, but a martial artist himself. He has competed in the past during his youth and even served in the military, where his martial arts training was put to the test. After an injury in the Iraq War, specifically Operation Iraqi Freedom, Michael Sr. no longer trains and competes, but does everything he can to support his children’s endeavors.

In the trio’s latest tournament in Portland, they took on formidable opponents from across the nation. At 12 years old, Taylor earned first place in point fighting, first place in forms (Kata), first place in weapons, and an impressive third place in self defense. Her younger sister, Audrey, who is just nine years old, secured second place in point fighting and first place in forms (Kata). Eight-year old Michael Jenkins Jr., clinched third place in point fighting and second place in forms (Kata). 

“Their collective achievements underscored their relentless training and dedication to their craft this season, which culminated in a thrilling final tournament,” Michael Jenkins Sr. said. “Their unwavering commitment to the sport and to the community of Sandpoint fuels their desire to excel.”

The Jenkins siblings have not only secured numerous individual honors, but are now within arms reach of obtaining the coveted "Grand Champion Award." This prestigious accolade is awarded to competitors who amass the most total combined points in their respective divisions over the course of the entire karate tournament season. Taylor, Audrey and Michael Jenkins Jr. find themselves just a few points away from etching their names in the martial arts record books. The Grand Champion Award winners will be announced sometime in December. 

Overall this season, the Jenkins siblings have brought home 24 trophies, including 10 first-place trophies back to Sandpoint.

“I believe their journey mirrors the spirit of resilience and excellence, motivating both young and old to pursue their passions with dedication and hard work,” Michael Jenkins Sr. said.

The trio's first tournament next season will be the Bruce Lee Tournament in Ontario, Calif.

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