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Nakamura, Pasamonte earn gold in tourney
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The Compete Nationals, recently held in Ontario, has become the single largest martial arts tournament on the West Coast. Much like the Daytona 500 kick starts the NASCAR season, the Compete Nationals is the first tournament that brings the very best martial artists from around the country together, to get the new season started. Representing Sasaki Kenpo, an Oxnard martial arts school, was black belt Jaime Nakamura and brown belt Armand Pasamonte.
Nakamura, who normally competes in about 12 different divisions, competed in two events. He started the new season in a new age-group, 12-14. The 12-year-old placed first in continuous fighting and fourth in traditional weapons.
"I was only able to do two divisions because I had an audition for a national commercial and had to miss part of the tournament," said Nakamura, a three-time World Champion.
Nakamura, an aspiring young actor, recently landed a national commercial for Capri Sun. He appears riding a skateboard.
Also competing for Team Sasaki was Oxnard resident Pasamonte, 13. Pasamonte, who will be a freshman this fall at Santa Clara High, is new to the tournament circuit and competed in just one division. Competed in the boys' open forms division, Pasamonte earned gold by defeating competitors from around the country.
"Armand is one of the most technically sound kids I've ever coached. He works very hard to be precise and efficient with his movement, which makes his movements very clean," said Michael Sharma, head trainer at Sasaki's Kenpo.
Next up for Team Sasaki is the Cal Coast Regional Karate Tournament. Hosted by Sasaki Kenpo, the tournament takes place at the Ventura County Fair Grounds on March 29. The public is invited to come and see some of the best local martial artists in action. Information: 981-4333.
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